A train was brought to a standstill and passengers had to be evacuated after the driver reported hitting a fire extinguisher on the tracks.

Southeastern has apologised to customers caught up in delays on services running between Teynham, near Sittingbourne and Faversham yesterday evening.

It comes after reports of vandalism and trespass on the tracks shortly before 8pm last night.

A train had to be evacuated after being brought to a halt due to the obstruction near Ospringe.

Southeastern Railway Communications and Stakeholder Director Jonny Holdcroft said: “We’re sorry to our customers who were delayed following an obstruction on the Faversham line on Friday evening.

“A train was brought to a standstill between Teynam and Faversham after the driver reported hitting an object left on the track.

“Customers were safely evacuated onto another train and taken to Faversham so they could continue their journeys.

“Services were fully restored after it was confirmed it was safe to do so.

He added: “Vandalism and trespass on the railway is very dangerous as well as being disruptive to our customers and we work with British Transport Police to find those who are responsible for it.”

The obstruction led to lengthy delays for rail passengers who reported being stuck on the train for more than 90 minutes.

One customer reported on social media she had missed a concert featuring Sir Tom Jones held at Margate’s Dreamland last night because of it.

Anyone who is delayed by 15 minutes is encouraged to claim delay repay compensation via the railway operator’s website here.

Southeastern is also reminding customers to check before they travel as there is a strike and planned engineering works happening today.

British Transport Police were approached for comment.