A trespassing incident disrupted trains between West Croydon and Sutton stations on Thursday (Wednesday, November 4) with rail authorities reporting significant delays.

National Rail and rail operators Southern announced the disruption around 4.30pm on Thursday, suggesting significant problems for rail commuters on the eve of another national lockdown amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

A statement from National Rail released Wednesday afternoon said:

"Trespassers on the railway between Sutton and West Croydon are causing disruption between these stations.

"Trains may be cancelled or delayed. This is expected until 18.30pm."

Southern meanwhile warned their users of similar levels of disruption.

A spokesperson suggested that a single person had trespassed and that they had since been attended to by emergency services:

"Following reports of a trespasser on the railway between Sutton Surrey & West Croydon, we are currently unable to run between these stations.

"Emergency services have confirmed the person is safe, and trains are going to be able to run through the area at normal speed again very shortly.

"Delays will remain to service whilst this happens," Southern said.