'Trespasser' on tracks sparks London train chaos as crowds wait at Waterloo station

A 'trespasser' incident in Southwest London has resulted in rush hour chaos on the railways. Officials say disruption set to last until the end of the day (Wednesday, May 15).

National Rail says that a problem at Raynes Park was first reported at 3.42pm. Police have reportedly dealt with the incident, and rail lines have reopened.

However, major disruption is expected to continue. A statement on National Rail’s website reads: “Following the police dealing with a trespass incident in the Wimbledon area all lines have now reopened. While service recovers, trains running through the Wimbledon area may still be cancelled, severely delayed by up to 60 minutes or revised. Major disruption is expected until the end of the day.”

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Angie Pitt, who is based in Leatherhead, Surrey, said she has been at Waterloo since 3.45pm and was on a train for an hour before it was cancelled. The 50-year-old said: “It’s a bit fraught on the concourse, a recent announcement told us, ‘we simply do not have enough space to get you all home’.

“I was on the 1554 to Leatherhead, I was hoping to be home by 4.45. Feeling frustrated and hot. I’ve got a seat and some snacks, trains are starting to leave now so I’ll sit it out. I’m optimistic.”

Lines affected

The routes affected include:

• South Western Railway between London Waterloo and Hampton Court, Shepperton, Chessington South, Woking, Alton, Dorking, Guildford, Basingstoke, Yeovil Junction, Exeter St Davids, Portsmouth and Southsea, Portsmouth Harbour and Weymouth

• Thameslink between St Albans City and Sutton

South Western Railway posted on X. A spokesperson said: “Following the police dealing with an incident at Raynes Park, all lines have now reopened. At this time, we estimate that disruption to our services will be until the end of the day.

"Train services are now able to run however, please be aware that due to crew and train displacement following the line closure, whilst we return the service to normal, train services may still be cancelled, delayed or revised. You are advised to check your journey before you travel.”

British Transport Police has been contacted for more information.

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