A person hit and killed by a train has been identified as a 64-year-old woman from Paddock Wood.

The tragedy happened on the line close to Willow Lane shortly after 4.30pm yesterday.

Police and paramedics were called but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

A spokesman for British Transport Police said: “The incident is not being treated as suspicious and officers are now working to identify the person and inform their family.

“A file will be prepared for the coroner.”

It caused widespread disruption on the rail network, with the line being closed in both directions between Paddock Wood and Ashford International until 6.30pm.

Trains between Paddock Wood and Strood were delayed until 8pm while services towards Ashford International were affected until 9pm.

Trains from London Charing Cross were diverted at Maidstone East and replacement buses were arranged for stranded passengers.