A SIGNALLING issue is affecting trains across Dorset. 

Due to a signalling problem at Sherborne trains have to run at reduced speed on all lines.

Travel disruption is expected until 6pm this evening. 

A spokesperson for SWR said: "We have been informed that there is an axle counter failure at Sherborne. This means that trains will be running at a reduced speed through this area.

"There are at least two axle counters per signalling section; one to count the number of axles on a train entering a signalling section and one to count the number of axles leaving a signalling section. If these two totals match, the section becomes clear for the next train.

"However, if the totals do not match or if there is another issue, the section of track remains occupied, holding the protecting signal at red.

"When there is a failure trains will stop before the affected signal and will have to be verbally directed through the affected area by the signaller.

"When being talked through the section by the signaller trains will run at a reduced speed."