The southbound rail link to Brighton has reopened after an hour-long investigation into reports of flooding.

A “large degree of disruption” on the network was reported, caused by the southbound line being deemed impassable between Haywards Heath and Preston Park.

Trains were either diverted via Lewes or cancelled, and bus services ordered in.

Network Rail sent inspectors in to the Clayton tunnel, south of Hassocks, on foot to determine whether reported flooding is severe enough to move the train tracks.

A Network Rail spokesman told The Argus: "We've had a team in there as of 4.05pm, they're walking through the tunnel and investigating the severity of the flooding."

He added: "The reports are that the flood water is moving, which can move the stones the track sits on and cause the track to move out of alignment."

Buses were drafted in to pick up stranded commuters and stop at every station to Brighton.

A statement by Southern Rail anticipated that the inspection and related track closure would last until at least 6.00pm this evening, but an update at 4.55pm revealed the line had reopened. 

⚠️ #HaywardsHeath - Lines towards Brighton are blocked due to flooding between Hassocks & Burgess Hill. Services subject to disruption ⚠️

More on this breaking story soon...