The Heart of Wessex train line will close between Weymouth and Castle Cary for track replacement work.

From Monday, September 23 to Sunday, September 29, the train line will be closed with buses replacing trains.

During this period, Network Rail’s engineers will replace just less than a mile of the track, which is over 50 years old.

Passengers should anticipate smoother and more reliable trips once this work is concluded.

Improvement works will also take place at the junctions on either side of Maiden Newton station.

During the closure, a rail replacement bus service will run between Weymouth and Castle Cary.

Fast buses will call at Yeovil Pen Mill and Dorchester West, while slower buses will stop at all stations.

Engineering works are also scheduled on Sunday, September 22 between Dorchester West and Weymouth.

A replacement bus service will operate non-stop between Yeovil Pen Mill and Weymouth.

Mark Goodall, Network Rail’s Wessex route director, said: "The track we are replacing is over 50 years old and worn out, making it more prone to defects and faults.

"This essential engineering work will improve the railway between Weymouth and Castle Cary, allowing passengers to enjoy smoother and more reliable journeys."

Jordan Welsby, GWR station manager for Westbury, Wiltshire and Dorset, said: "This improvement work forms part of an ongoing programme of maintenance, helping to ensure we can continue to provide consistent and reliable service."

Passengers are advised that the alternative arrangements in place will increase the normal journey time, so should check before they travel.