COMMUTERS face disruption after a section of track was “accidentally damaged”, preventing trains from using it.

The points, which is the moveable section of tracks which make trains change direction, were damaged during overnight works by Network Rail near Littlehampton.

It means trains cannot travel between Littlehampton and Ford in either direction until Thursday, which is when the new pieces of track will be fitted after being shipped.

A Network Rail spokesman apologised for the disruption.

He said: “We’ve not been able to replace the damaged points as we haven’t been able to source the right components locally. However, we have found them elsewhere in the country and they are being shipped.

“They are due to arrive on site tomorrow (Wednesday) at 7pm and we are planning to install them over that night, with the railway reopening on Thursday morning. Further work will take place on Thursday night to complete the job and weld everything up.

“In the meantime we are still trying to find the right components closer to home and if we can get them to site tonight we will do the job then. We’re really sorry for the disruption and thank you for your patience.”

Southern Rail confirmed no trains will run until at least the end of the day tomorrow.

It said people can still travel to and from Littlehampton by changing trains at Angmering.

A limited rail replacement bus is also available between Littlehampton, Ford and Barnham.