RAIL passengers are facing long delays after reports of a "loud explosion".

Firefighters from St Mary's Fire Station rushed to St Denys shortly before 3pm today after reports of a "loud explosion" near a level crossing.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was out when the crews arrived and they did not take any action.

But South Western Railway said the fire has caused damages to the track and urgent repair works are being carried out between Fareham and Southampton Central.

The Southampton bound line is blocked due to the works.

South Western Railway warned residents that train services may be cancelled, delayed or diverted via Eastleigh and said disruption is expected until the end of service today January 27.

Stations between Fareham and St Denys on the Southampton bound journeys will be served by a replacement bus.

Network Rail engineers are on site, assessing the situation.

Train bosses said until the extent of damage is assessed and the tracks are repaired, all trains from Fareham towards Southampton Central will be diverted via Botley - Eastleigh - St Denys - Southampton Central.

Trains can currently run normally from Southampton Central towards Fareham.

Customers who want to travel to Southampton Central from stations between Fareham and St Denys are invited to also consider travel towards Fareham and to take an Eastleigh bound train from there.

South Western Railway apologised for any disruption caused.