Train delays and cancellations are set to continue into next week, causing misery for Sussex commuters.

All train companies operating to and from Sussex have been struggling to cope with the old problem of leaves on the line since the weekend storms concentrated most of the autumn leaf fall into just a few hours.

That has resulted in a slimy film being left on the track, making wheel gripping difficult.

Drivers have been forced to reduce speed and slow down earlier before stations to prevent them sliding past platforms.

There have been delays of up to 30 minutes on the main commuter routes to and from the Sussex coast as drivers struggle to cope with the problem of slippery rails.

On some long-distance routes, such as the Virgin InterCity from Brighton to north-west England, there have been delays of more than an hour.

Thameslink has not been running cross-London services from Brighton to Bedford all week. Trains have been terminating at City Thameslink. Passengers have had to go to Moorgate for Thameslink services north of London.

The rail company blames signalling problems and poor rail head conditions.

Train companies cannot say when services will return to normal.

If there are more winds and rain, the problem will continue. Forecasters predict an unsettled week.