A PERSON has been hit by a train on a busy railway line.

The incident happened on the tracks between Hove and Worthing at about 12pm.

Emergency services are currently on the scene and a spokesman for Southern Rail said many services are at a stand in the area.

He said: "Services via Hove and Worthing are severely disrupted.

"We are sorry to report that a person has been struck by a train between these stations.

"Emergency services are dealing with the incident.

"Ticket acceptance is in place on local Brighton and Hove buses and Stagecoach buses."

Southern Rail provided an update at about 2.30pm.

A spokesman said: "All lines have now reopened following a person being hit by a train between Hove and Worthing. 

"Trains between Hove and Worthing may be cancelled, delayed or revised. Disruption is expected until 4.30pm.

"Severe disruption is still affecting all Southern trains via Hove and Worthing.

"If your train is cancelled, you may wish to use a local bus service, especially for local journeys between Brighton, Hove, Aldrington, Portslade, Fishersgate, Southwick, Shoreham-by-Sea, Lancing and the Worthing area. Local buses may also be busier than usual.

"Railway response staff and emergency services have been dealing with this incident. We have been informed that emergency services are now clear of the railway and trains can run through the area.

"However, our trains and crews have been significantly displaced from their normal schedules.

"This means disruption will continue for some time.

"If you've been affected by what happened on the network today, there is always someone to talk to. You can contact the Samaritans on 116 123 from any phone for a confidential chat."