Cable theft causes disruption on rail line

Cable was stolen from the rail lines between Shenfield and Brentwood in Essex

Signalling cables have been stolen from near a major railway junction, causing disruption for passengers.

Greater Anglia has told passengers not to travel between Shenfield in Essex and London Liverpool Street until later on Sunday.

It said the theft in the Shenfield area resulted in "a loss of signalling", blocking lines.

The closure has affected services to the London station from Norwich, Ipswich, Clacton-on-Sea and Southend-on-Sea.

British Transport Police and Network Rail teams have been sent to the area.

A Greater Anglia spokesperson said it did not yet know when the lines might reopen.

The Elizabeth line between Stratford and Shenfield has also been affected.

The signalling problems have resulted in a limited service to Shenfield from Colchester and Southend.

Affected passengers would be able to claim compensation for any delays more than 15 minutes, a spokesperson said.

They added Sunday tickets could now be used on Monday instead.

Shenfield is a major junction for many services, including trains using the Great Eastern Main Line.