Southeastern services were stopped along a busy line and the power switched off due to a train hitting an “obstruction”.

The rail operator said trains were unable to run via the Maidstone East line due to an incident near Borough Green.

In an update at around 8.40pm, Southeastern said the line towards London remains blocked.

“Power will be switched off to allow the driver to remove the obstruction,” a spokesman said.

“Delays and diversions are likely until the line re-opens.”

In a further update issues at 9.12, Southeastern said: “The driver and member of Network Rail staff are attempting to remove the obstruction from the line at Borough Green.

“We are awaiting the power to be switched off so that they can safely access the track.”

The line reopened just after 10pm.

Earlier this evening there were also delays to rail services running through Ebbsfleet, near Dartford at around 7.30pm.

This was due to reports of an object on the tracks, Southeastern said.

Southeastern has been contacted for more information.