Passengers faced delays and cancellations after a train hit a tree.

It happened near Snodland Railway Station at around 5.15pm .

Southeastern warned customers of the issue on X, formerly known as Twitter.

It said the tree needed to be removed before services could resume.

As a result, the Medway Valley line trains were not running between Maidstone West and Strood.

It is understood the barriers on the nearby level crossing were stuck in the “down” position.

One driver says he abandoned his car and walked home.

“When I spoke to the emergency number, I asked whether ambulances and fire engines could get through,” he said.

“They said they could not open the barrier until the train moves back in to the station.

“So if anyone needs emergency services, make sure you let them know they'll have to go on foot from the level crossing. Ridiculous!”

Initially, delays were expected until around 7.30pm and train users were told they could use their ticket on Arriva Bus routes – including the 71 between Snodland and Maidstone, as well as the 151 between Snodland and Rochester.

As of 6.20pm, Southeastern said the tree had been removed and the line had reopened.