Fire disrupts dozens of Brighton and Hove trains

Trains in and out of Brighton and Hove are facing delays and cancellations after a fire late last night (Thursday 20 December).

The electrical fire at Preston Park was reported just before midnight, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said.

It affected hundreds of people trying to make their way home from London.

And thousands of commuters face problems travelling to work this morning.

Fire crews had to ensure that all the power supplies were switched off on both sets of lines before they could start tackling the blaze.

The fire in an electrical box has prevented trains running in both directions.

Three crews from Hove and Preston Circus in Brighton tackled the fire.

They worked with staff from Southern Rail who were working on site at the time.

Crews remained at the scene until almost 2.30am both tackling the fire and helping Network Rail to keep passengers away from the scene.