Southern Rail: Trespassers cause late-night railway disruption in Surrey

Southern Rail reported at 10.50pm on Wednesday (June 18) that all lines to and from Epsom Downs were blocked.

“This is due to trespassers on the railway,” the train company wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

"This is affecting our services that run between London and Epsom Downs, via Norbury, in both directions.

“If you are travelling now, you may need to use an alternative route to reach your destination.”

Those travelling to and from Belmont, Banstead and Epsom Downs were advised that ‘no trains are currently serving these stations’.

Southern was working on ticket acceptance with local buses and Transport for London (TfL).

An update just before 11.10pm read: “If you're travelling between Sutton and Selhurst (via West Croydon), there is now a reduced service so please check your train before you travel.

“You may need to board a train earlier than planned and you should allow at least 20 minutes extra for your journey.

"Tickets will be accepted on TfL London Buses between Sutton, Belmont, Banstead and Epsom Downs.

“Please check bus times and allow extra time for your journey.”

At 11.25pm, Southern reported that the power to the line had been restored and services were ‘on the move again’ to and from Epsom Downs.

Services were expected to be on time and running as scheduled from 11.37pm – but the 23.37 service from Epsom Downs ended up being cancelled.

Southern Rail added: “If you are travelling now, please continue using your ticket on TfL London Buses or alternative Southern services towards your destination.”

By midnight, services were no longer being affected by this incident.

If you were delayed by 15 minutes or more, you may be eligible for delay repay. You can make a claim at www.delayrepay.southernrailway.com