A PERSON was found dead on train tracks this morning.

British Transport Police were called to the rail line near Balcombe at 8.12am this morning after reports of a body on the line.

The individual was pronounced dead at the scene.

Stewards at Brighton train station are telling travellers someone has been hit by a train.

They said the power has been cut between Brighton and Three Bridges as a precaution.

Police said they are dealing with the incident, which is causing disruption on other lines in the area.

Southern, Gatwick Express and Thameslink services are all affected, and delays are expected until midday.

At the station this morning, a crowd of commuters waited for boards to resume displaying train times.

A notice on the Southern Rail website said: "Your journey will take much longer than usual.

"Please delay your journey until later today, if possible.

"Trains will be cancelled or revised to start or finish their journeys away from the affected area.

"Please avoid heading to Haywards Heath for trains towards London, and be aware there are no trains calling at Balcombe in either direction."