A SIGNALLING fault between Brighton and Three Bridges earlier today has been causing delays on the main line to and from London.

Network Rail engineers fixed the signalling fault earlier this evening.

However, disruption is expected until the end of the day.

Commuters have reported heavy crowds at Victoria and London Bridge stations, with delays getting to Gatwick and Brighton.

The signalling fault occurred after lunchtime and was fixed by about 5pm but there have been knock-on delays.

A more recent trespass incident at East Croydon has compounded service problems, causing disruption to Southern and Gatwick Express services leaving Brighton and London Victoria.

Ticket are being accepted on any Southern/Gatwick Express service as well as Thameslink, Great Western Railway, Southeastern and South West Train services "via any reasonable route", says Southern.

London Underground are also accepting tickets between Victoria and London Bridge.

Southern said: "We are very sorry for the disruption this causes to your journey this evening."

Network Rail said the signalling issue took place at Balcombe Tunnel.

Services are expected to be disrupted until the end of today.