A FATALITY on the Chatham Main Line in Kent closed the track in both directions this morning. 

At around 11.15 the 09.04 service from Dover Priory to Victoria was carrying around 200 people when it struck a person in the Farningham Road area.

Emergency services were called and an ambulance attended.

The train itself was damaged in the incident and has had to be taken out of service.

Southeastern Trains said coaches and buses were organised for passengers at stations en route and mainline ticket holders were allowed to use high speed services from Rochester without further charge.

At 11.50 the line towards Kent was re-opened and trains were up and running towards London by 12.30.

A spokeswoman for Southeastern said: "We'd like to thank people for their patience in this difficult situation. 

"We've worked as quickly as possible to keep people moving on their journeys while assisting the emergency services.

"We've also looked after those who've been delayed by giving out bottled water and assisting with alternative travel arrangements."