Train services have been disrupted or cancelled after a lorry hit a railway bridge.

The vehicle collided with the bridge in Newington this morning leaving trains between Sittingbourne and Rainham unable to run and delayed.

In a Tweet Southeastern Rail said: "Due to a road vehicle colliding with a bridge, services in the area are currently unable to run and will be held in platforms.

"Network Rail response staff need to check the bridge first before the line can reopen and should be on site by 11.45am."

Trains were unable to run between Sittingbourne and Rainham in either direction, however travellers are able to use their tickets on Arriva Bus Routes 191 Chatham - Strood and 132 Rainham - Chatham for not extra cost.

Southeastern later Tweeted: "Following checks, all lines have reopened, however, trains are delayed and there may be alterations or cancellations whilst we work to get things back on time.

"Trains are still disrupted following a road vehicle colliding with a bridge earlier and we're working to get things back on time as soon as possible but there may be alterations and cancellations to trains whilst we do this."

A spokesman said: "Network Rail have checked the bridge an it is safe to run, all lines have reopened – unfortunately with delays, alterations or cancellations whilst everything gets back to normal."

Police have also been contacted for comment.