A FALLEN tree has caused huge disruption to trains travelling through Dorset.

The tree fell onto a section of the railway between Axminster and Yeovil Junction.

All lines are now blocked as a result, affecting trains through Axminster, Sherborne and Gillingham.

Disruption is expected until around 2pm today.

A spokesperson for South Western Railway (SWR) said: "We have been informed that there is a tree blocking the railway between Axminster and Yeovil Junction.

"This means that trains all lines are currently blocked between these stations. Our specialist teams are working to clear the tree from the track.

"To assist you with your journey your ticket will be accepted, at no extra cost to yourself, on the following services:
"Great Western Railway services between Exeter St Davids and London Paddington, Basingstoke and Reading, and Salisbury and Westbury.

"Stagecoach South West 1 between Exeter and Pinhoe.

"Stagecoach South West 4 between Exeter St Davids and Cranbrook.

"Stagecoach South West 9 between Honiton and Exeter.

"Stagecoach South West X30 between Honiton and Exeter.

"Stagecoach South West 44 and 44A between Axminster - Honiton - Cranbrook - Exeter.

"For further information or onward travel advice please speak to a member of staff or use a station help point.

"We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause to your journey."

For more information and for updates on travel, visit the SWR website.

At around 3pm, SWR issued an update that the tree had been cleared.

An SWR spokesperson said: "Trains are now running normally following a tree blocking the railway between Axminster and Yeovil Junction and there should be no further delays to your journey.

"If you were delayed by 15 minutes or more, you may be entitled to claim compensation."