The family of a Staplehurst woman who died after being hit by a train have been informed.

The 47-year-old woman was killed yesterday afternoon close to platform one.

British Transport Police, called at 1.35pm, said death is not being treated as suspicious.

The woman was struck by an empty service on its way to London ahead of the evening peak.

A spokesman from Southeastern said: “We express our sympathy to the family of the individual involved.

“The incident was very distressing for the driver and we made sure that he received the care he needed as quickly as possible.”

No train ran through the village until 6pm and a replacement bus service escorted passengers to Paddock Wood station.

Disruption was also experienced on the entire line between Ashford International and Tonbridge.

Replacement buses were sent to all stations, including Marden and Headcorn.
Standard tickets were are also accepted on the high-speed service from Ashford International.

Trains were able to serve the stations, with the exception of Staplehurst, from 3pm although some were diverted through Maidstone East.

A witness said at least 10 police attended the station, as did Kent Fire and Rescue Service.