Train fault causes disruption for South Western Railway travellers between Christchurch and Brockenhurst

RAIL travellers are facing ongoing disruption this morning (Friday) after a train developed a fault between Christchurch and Brockenhurst.

The incident was first reported by South Western Railway shortly before 7am, when it warned the line towards Southampton was blocked and journeys were likely to take longer.

Commuters were told trains may be cancelled, delayed or revised.

All lines were reopened about an hour later, but SWR said services would continue to be affected until midday.

Replacement buses were arranged to stop at stations between Bournemouth and Brockenhurst from 8.15am, but they are not running to a set timetable.

SWR tickets can be used on CrossCountry services between Bournemouth and Basingstoke, and Southern Rail services between Southampton Central and London Victoria.

They can also be used on Morebus routes 1A, 1B, 1C and 33 between Bournemouth and Christchurch, as well as M1 and M2 between Poole and Bournemouth; and X1 and X2 between Bournemouth and Lymington.

An SWR spokesperson said: “For further information or onward travel advice please speak to a member of staff or use a station help point.

“We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause to your journey.”