Delays to Gatwick train services persist after fire

Trains running between Gatwick Airport and Purley may be subject to delays following a fire next to the track between the two stations on Tuesday morning.

Gatwick Express said that, while all lines have reopened, journeys may take at least 30 minutes longer than usual, with disruption expected until 11:45 BST.

Posting on social media just before 11:00, both Thameslink and Southern urged passengers to allow an extra 15 minutes for journeys.

Network Rail said that the fire "has not been put out", adding that fires in railway areas "present a serious safety risk" as they can damage signalling equipment, power systems, and track infrastructure.

Those affected by the delays can travel on several services at no extra cost, including Southern services between Haywards Heath, Horsham and London Victoria, Thameslink services between Brighton, Horsham and London Bridge, and Great Western Railway services between Gatwick Airport and Redhill, the train company says.

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