Some runners trying to reach the Tunbridge Wells half marathon this morning were caught out because they hadn’t realised there were still no train services on the Hastings to Tonbridge line.

The line has been closed since early February due to two heavy landslips - at Stonegate and at Robertsbridge.

Repair work had been delayed by the continuing wet weather.

The line is due to re-open tomorrow (Monday) but that was of little comfort to the runners aiming for today’s 9am start.

The race was still able to start on time with a good field of runners.

There was further joy for rail passengers on the Maidstone West to Tonbridge line and on the Tonbridge to Ashford International route today. There are no services on either line today due to routine engineering works. Buses are being laid one, but journeys are taking longer than normal.

Some trains from Charing Cross to Ramsgate will be diverted via Maidstone East calling additionally at Chislehurst, Otford and Maidstone East, but journeys will be extended by up to 75 minutes.