Kent and Sussex wintry weather causes travel disruption

Motorists have been urged to adapt their driving to the weather conditions and allow more time for journeys

Wintry weather and snowfall has caused disruption to rail and road travel in Kent and Sussex.

Southeastern trains said the snowy and icy conditions had led to delays of up to 80 minutes in south-east London and Kent on Wednesday.

The firm said a number of services had been cancelled and all trains were running at a reduced speed.

Ten vehicles were involved in a crash on the London-bound carriageway of the A299 Thanet Way at Whitstable.

'Ice on rails'

A spokeswoman for Southeastern said: "Snow and icy conditions across south-east London and Kent this morning has resulted in significant delays to Southeastern services.

"Ice on the rails means trains must run at a reduced speed - this is much like cars taking care during slippery conditions.

"This is causing delays and cancellations to services. We're working as quickly as possible to restore the service.

"We're sorry that people's journeys have been disrupted this morning and we advise all passengers to check for service updates before travelling."

Kent Police said no-one was seriously injured in the crash on the A299. The road was reopened to drivers at about 10:40 GMT, according to Kent County Council's highways department.

Sussex Police have urged motorists to adapt their "driving to meet the weather conditions of the road and give more time for a slower journey".

A car ended up on its roof during a serious three-vehicle crash on the A272 in Cuckfield earlier but police did not think weather conditions were a major factor.