Services resume after train derailment

The train derailed near Walton-on-Thames

Train services have resumed after a derailment in Surrey caused widespread disruption on Monday.

South Western Railway (SWR) said on Tuesday morning the lines between Woking and Surbiton had reopened and a full service was expected throughout the day.

A spokesperson said: "We are pleased to confirm the incident train was moved from the site and Network Rail engineers successfully carried out track repairs overnight."

They added there may be some delays, revisions and cancellations as some trains are in the wrong place. Customers are being advised to check before travelling.

Network Rail confirmed the front wheels of the train had derailed

Network Rail confirmed a train hit an object at about 05:50 GMT in a 90mph area near Walton-on-Thames in Surrey.

The incident derailed the front wheels of the train.

All four tracks between Woking and Surbiton were closed before the disruption spread across the SWR network including between London and Exeter St David's, Portsmouth Harbour and Weymouth.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch said a decision on whether or not an investigation would be launched would be taken once evidence had been reviewed.

Nick Dransfield, a passenger on the derailed train, described a "loud bang" before the train "juddered and performed an emergency stop".

He added: "Sparks were erupting up the side of the train."

Mr Dransfield praised staff on the train, who he said had "leapt into duty" and were checking on passengers' welfare.

The train involved was one of the first to travel through the area after Network Rail carried out maintenance work on the line over the weekend.

It has not been confirmed whether the object was involved in this work.

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