A lightning strike which damaged a level crossing between Ipswich and Needham Market has caused delays in train services across the region.

Engineers from Network Rail are working to repair equipment damaged at the level crossing in Baylham after it was struck by lightning at around 5.40am today.

Services from Ipswich to London, Cambridge and Peterborough have been hit by delays of up to 15 minutes at short notice.

Services between Norwich and London are seeing similar delays.

A Greater Anglian spokesman said disruption is expected until midnight.

He said: “Owing to a problem at a level crossing between Needham Market and Ipswich after lightning damaged the crossing equipment this morning, all services which travel via Needham Market are subject to delays of around 15 minutes.

“Network Rail engineers are on site and are working to rectify the fault. We thank you for your patience and understanding.”

A spokesman for Network Rail confirmed engineers are on site but said no estimated time has been set for when the level crossing will be repaired.

She added: “Our engineers are working as quickly as possible to repair the damaged level crossing.”