A train was damaged when it struck a boulder which fell onto the train tracks after heavy rains.

Trains have now been cancelled on a key section of the Southeastern network between Maidstone East and Ashford International, after the crash at around 7.45am this morning.

The train was on its way to Ashford International when it hit the boulder, which had come loose from the embankment during overnight rains.

Damage was caused to the vehicle's shoe gear, which is the part which connects to the live rail.

No-one was injured, and passengers were transferred to an alternative train.

The line is now blocked in both directions between Maidstone East and Bearsted which has forced Southeastern to cancel scheduled trains.

Replacement bus services are running between Maidstone East and Ashford International and existing rail tickets will be accepted on these journeys.

Standard tickets are also being accepted on the High Speed Line.

A spokesman said they are unsure when the obstruction will be cleared or normal service to be resumed.

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