Trespass on line near Totton station causes hours of disruption for South Western Railway train passengers between town and Ashurst

A TRESPASSER on the railway blocked all lines between Totton and Ashurst, causing hours of disruption.

British Transport Police (BTP) responded to a call to the track near Totton station around 8.40pm yesterday (Tuesday) amid concerns for the person’s welfare.

Passengers were warned by South Western Railway of potential train delays while the incident was dealt with.

A BTP spokesperson told the A&T: “Officers were called to the line near Totton railway station at around 8.42pm following reports of concern for the welfare of a trespasser on the tracks.

“Officers attended and the person was taken to a place of safety.”

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “At around 8.35pm last night (2nd July) our CCTV cameras at Totton level crossing spotted a woman on the railway.

“For everyone’s safety, we had to temporarily switch off power to the third rail – the electrified rail which powers trains – while colleagues at British Transport Police got the woman off the tracks.

"We're really sorry for disruption passengers experienced."

SWR said ticket holders were able to use CrossCountry services between Southampton Central and Bournemouth in both directions.

Although announcing all lines had reopened around 9.20pm, the transport service warned disruption was expected to continue until the end of the day.