Major delays are expected to last until the end of the day on c2c trains after a fallen tree caused damage to overhead electric wires.

Commuters were forced to use rail replacement buses, with delays of around 45 minutes, after c2c reported the problem just after 5.30pm last night (April 15).

This morning, the rail operator has advised "essential travel" only, and said many of its services remain cancelled, delayed or diverted.

This comes after the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning amid strong winds across much of the UK.

c2c, which operates trains between Essex and central London, has since apologised for the disruption caused to people using its services, and revealed a fallen tree was the root of its problems.

"We're really sorry for the disruption people are experiencing on our route.

"Unfortunately a tree fell on to the overhead lines yesterday evening - the tree has been removed [but] there is severe damage to the overhead lines," c2c posted to X.

c2c confirmed the tree fell between Barking and West Horndon, damaging the wires and subsequently causing disruption across its network.

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The company has pointed out that replacement buses are running between Upminster and Pitsea in Essex via Laindon.

Another bus service is running from Upminster to Grays via Ockendon and Chafford Hundred.

Network Rail engineers have been at the scene overnight and will continue to repair the overhead lines today, c2c added.

Its services remain "severely affected" and c2c predicts this may continue into the afternoon peak.

If you have been delayed you may be eligible for compensation here: www.c2c-online.co.uk/help-feedback/delay-repay/