Emergency services are on the way to a train derailment between Haywards Heath and Lewes in Sussex, Southern Rail has said.

In a statement to the BBC, a spokesperson for Network Rail and Southern Rail said: "We are aware that a passenger train has derailed in the Lewes area of East Sussex.Emergency services are on site and we will update with more information when we can."

Officers from British Transport Police are among the emergency workers at the scene.

A force statement said: “Officers are currently on scene close to Lewes railway station following reports of a derailed train at 3.54pm today (13 August).

“We’re responding alongside paramedics and the fire service and will provide more information as soon as we can.”

Have you witnessed the crash or have pictures from the scene? Email bryony.gooch@independent.co.uk

Major disruption on line til 10pm

Southern Rail has warned customers will face major disruption until 10pm after a train was derailed in the Lewes area, which has closed all lines running through this station.

“As a result of this, trains are currently unable to run through the area to allow the emergency services to attend the incident.”

Fire crews arrive at scene of derailment as people warned to avoid the area

Fire crews have arrived at the scene of a train derailment near Lewes in East Sussex, and have warned people to avoid the area.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said they were called to an incident near Lewes train station.

“Other emergencies services have also been alerted,” the service said in a statement.

“We continue to work at the scene alongside our emergency service colleagues and other partners.

“Please avoid the area.”

Multi-agency response in place as train derailed near Lewes railway station

Officers are currently on scene close to Lewes railway station following reports of a derailed train at 3.54pm on Thursday.

British Transport Police said: “We’re responding alongside paramedics and the fire service and will provide more information as soon as we can.”