Drivers were left unable to cross train tracks at Ashtead train station this morning as the motor in the barriers at the level crossing burnt out after being weighed down by a branch.

The level crossing barriers were stuck halfway between the up and down position, preventing drivers from crossing.

As of 10.20am, Network Rail were still working to make the barrier operational.

Firefighters from Epsom fire station were called to the crossing in Woodfield Lane, Ashtead at about 7.35am.

A spokesman from the fire station explained that firefighters opened the box to ventilate the smoke from the burning motor and turned the motor off.

They then took a temperature reading using a thermal imaging camera and waited for it to go down to a safe level.

He added: “We are not sure if the branch being on the barrier was deliberate or an absolute fluke.”

Surrey Police officers managed traffic before handing this duty over to British Transport Police.

A spokesman from Network Rail said: “We apologise to any drivers who have been delayed.”

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