A person has been hit by a train in the Sutton area this afternoon (Monday, October 25) bringing delays and cancellations between Mitcham Junction and Epsom.

Rail operators Southern and Thameslink announced the casualty in statements posted on Monday afternoon, confirming that the emergency services were in attendance.

Southern described the incident as "tragic", announcing the news "with great sadness":

"It is with great sadness that we report a person has been hit by a train between Mitcham Junction and Epsom. All lines are blocked between these stations whilst the emergency services work to deal with this incident," a spokesperson posted to Twitter. "All lines are blocked whilst the emergency services deal with this tragic incident. Trains between London and Sutton/Wimbledon will run to Wimbledon via Tooting only. Trains between Epsom and London Bridge will not run," they added.

Thameslink for their part said: "A person has been hit by a train in the Sutton area. As all lines are currently closed, trains may be cancelled or diverted until approximately 19:00. Please allow plenty of extra time for your journey this evening, and check before you travel. If you can, please travel later..."

What the rail operators described as "major" disruption was expected to last until at least 7pm.

London Ambulance Service and British Transport Police were contacted for comment.

Anyone impacted by the incident can find someone to talk with by contacting Samaritans on 116 123 for free from any phone for a confidential chat.