Flooding in Balcombe Tunnel: Trains delayed between Three Bridges and Haywards Heath

Heavy rain flooding the railway between Three Bridges and Haywards Heath means trains have to run at reduced speeds on all lines, Southern has reported.

Trains running between these stations may be delayed by up to 30 minutes, Southern added.

Response teams are due on site shortly – and will check to ensure that the rainwater is draining properly – but disruption is expected until 4pm, according to Southern.

Southern said Thameslink, Southern and Gatwick Express have received reports of water affecting the track in the area around Balcombe.

If the situation persists, this will delay journeys to and from Gatwick Airport and London, and affect areas further downroute on the Thameslink network, Southern added.

This is affecting trains in either direction, so Southern has advised passengers to check their journey at http://nationalrail.co.uk before travelling - especially if they are relying on connections.

Tickets can be used at no extra cost between Southern and Thameslink services and on local bus routes in the area between Three Bridges and Brighton.