Trains between Reading and London Paddington severely disrupted after overhead line equipment damaged

Commuters are being advised to not attempt to get into London by train this morning (Friday).

Damage to overhead line equipment yesterday evening means that there are severe problems on the line between Reading and Paddington.

Some passengers have reported waiting on the platform at Newbury, as train after train was cancelled at the time it was due to arrive at the station.

GWR said Network Rail engineers were still working to fix the problem but “some lines remained blocked impacting on train services this morning.”

The disruption is expected to last until at least midday and the rail operator said it was warning customers not to travel between London and Reading.

GWR customer service and operations director, Richard Rowland, said: “We’re really sorry for customers whose journeys have been disrupted following damage to overhead wires just outside London Paddington last night.

“For the safety of passengers all trains were stopped following the incident.

“Unfortunately, this disruption continues this morning and we are further impacted by flooding near Plymouth. We would urge customers in these areas to delay their journeys for the time being.

“I would like also to thank those travelling for their patience and understanding while we work with Network Rail to resolve these issues.”

Flooding is affecting parts of the GWR network, particularly in Devon and Cornwall.