Portsmouth train passengers hit by signal failure near Portsmouth Harbour - just as rail network was getting back to normal after broken-down train

Train passengers in Portsmouth have been dealt a bad hand today - as a second fault has emerged on the railways.

Earlier today a Southern Rail train developed a fault and broke down near Hilsea. As it was blocking one of the tracks, there was disruption as trains were routed around it, with knock-on effects felt around the region on the lines from Brighton and London Victoria. After a couple of hours it was recovered, and the network began to get back to normal - but now a new problem has arisen.

Southern Rail said: “While we continue to work towards our normal timetable, a fault with the signalling system at Portsmouth Harbour means that services for that station will instead terminate and start back from Portsmouth and Southsea.

“If you're travelling between Portsmouth Harbour and Portsmouth and Southsea now, you will need to use an alternative route. Your ticket continues to be accepted at no additional cost on Stagecoach routes 21 and 23, which run between these stations.

“You should continue to listen to announcements and check station screens while travelling, or check the Southern app and website for the latest information. Some South Western Railway services may be running between Portsmouth & Southsea and Portsmouth Harbour. Your ticket will be accepted on these services at no additional cost to allow journeys to/from Portsmouth Harbour.”