Trains running between Bournemouth and Weymouth were halted this morning. 

All lines have now reopened however, trains are having to run at reduced speed on the Weymouth bound line and may be delayed or running a revised service.

South Western Rail (SWR), who operate the service, said there was a problem with the train detection system between Bournemouth and Weymouth and as a result the Weymouth bound line was closed. 

Trains terminated at Bournemouth or Poole instead of Weymouth and as a result there were no trains at Weymouth to run towards Poole and Bournemouth.

A spokesman for SWR said engineers were on site to rectify a problem with the signalling system but a until this can be done trains will use a method of signalling called 'block working', which means they wil run slower than usual.

Disruption is expected until 2pm.

Passengers affected by cancellations will be able to use bus service X54 which runs between Weymouth and Poole at no extra cost.

A South Western Railway spokesperson said: “We’re sorry for the disruption to passenger journeys this morning. This was due to to a problem with the train detection system between Bournemouth and Weymouth. 

“Network Rail, who look after this infrastructure, have been working to fix the issue this morning. Their engineers have assured us that all lines will be open shortly but passengers should check their journey before travelling as there may be some short notice cancellations and residual delays.”

Customers needing help to complete their journey are advised to speak to a member of staff, visit southwesternrailway.com or use a help point at any station.