A fire on the rail track outside Gatwick Airport train station has caused major disruption across London and the south of England. Several services to the busy airport have been cancelled, with journeys delayed or altered during rush hour as a result of the fire on the third rail.

Southern Rail have warned that some services may be cancelled or delayed by as much as 35 minutes, with disruption expected for the rest of the day. Gatwick Express, Thames Link and Southern Rail services are being affected.

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A Southern Rail spokesperson said: "Earlier this morning, reports were received of a small fire on a section of track outside Gatwick Airport. This fire is now out. Whilst the cause of the fire is unclear, the result is that the electrical third rail, running rail, and surrounding cables have become damaged.

"While this equipment is repaired, our trains are unable to use all of the available lines through Gatwick Airport. Network Rail, who own and maintain the signalling and track, are attending the problem and will be providing updates to us.

"Trains are moving but will be subject to delays. To minimise the congestion caused by the reduction in the amount of available track, some of our services may be cancelled or have their calling patterns revised at short notice."

Gatwick Express also warned passengers hoping to use the fast train that some services may be delayed or cancelled at short notice, and that other trains will additionally call at Clapham Junction, which may add additional time to your journey.

A spokesperson added: "To help you to complete your journey as quickly as possible, Gatwick Express tickets are also being accepted on Thameslink and Southern train services between Brighton and London Victoria."

For a full list of affected services, please visit the Southern Rail website or the National Rail Enquiries real-time Journey Planner