NO TRAINS are running on a railway line the day after works were finished to upgrade it.

Engineers completed a "major upgrade" of the line between Lewes and Seaford yesterday.

The work was the final phase of work on a £25m project to upgrade the old signalling system on the line with modern, more reliable technology.

Dan Athol, programme director for Network Rail, said: “This is a much-needed upgrade to some of the oldest signalling in the country, with new state-of-the-art equipment providing passengers with more reliable journeys for many years to come."

But trains are currently unable to run between the two stations because of a signal fault.

A Southern Rail spokesman said: "A fault with the signalling system between Lewes and Seaford means trains are currently unable to run between these stations.

"Trains will be cancelled. This is expected to continue until 4pm.

"Services are unable to run between Seaford and Lewes.

"Trains which run between Seaford and Brighton will be cancelled until further notice.

"You will need to complete your journey by alternative routes.

"The following stations will not be served; Southease, Newhaven Town, Newhaven Harbour, Bishopstone and Seaford."

The Southern Rail spokesman has since provided an update.

He said that trains are now running again on the line but disruption on the line is expected to last until 7pm.

He said: "You're recommended to check before travelling this afternoon as your service may be cancelled."