A train was evacuated after smoke was seen coming from underneath it.

No trains could run between Maidstone East and Ashford for almost 24 hours after the train caught fire at Bearsted station in Ware Street, at about 2.40pm.

National Rail said emergency services and an engineering team were called, as “the train cannot move under its own power”.

While the removal of the train was organised, the line from Ashford towards Maidstone East was blocked.

Southeastern confirmed at 3.40am today (Wednesday) that the line had reopened and services were running normally.

At the height of the incident, five fire engines and a bulk water carrier were in attendance as crews extinguished the flames.

There were no reported injuries and the fire service said the cause of the fire was believed to be accidental and linked to the brakes overheating.

Fire crews left the scene at 4.30pm.

In a post on X Southeastern said: “Services between London Victoria and Ashford will be diverted to run via Sevenoaks and Paddock Wood.

“You can use your ticket at no extra cost on Stagecoach route 10X between Maidstone and Ashford.”

National Rail said its service between Maidstone East and Charing Cross was still able to run.

Network Rail said the disruption between Ashford International and Maidstone East was expected until the end of the day.

The police said: “Officers were called to Bearsted railway station at around 3pm today, following reports of a fire.

“Officers attended, alongside colleagues from other emergency services, and passengers were safely evacuated with no reports of any injuries.“