TRAIN services between London and Somerset have been cancelled due to problems with Hitachi trains.

A number of Class 800 series Hitachi trains from several train companies have been taken out of service for checks as a precautionary measure.

Disruption to the service is expected until the end of today (May 8).

A GWR spokesperson said: “This problem is being investigated by Hitachi and once trains have been checked, we hope to be able to release them back into service as soon as possible.

“This will affect a significant number of today’s Intercity services and local lines are also likely to be extremely busy. Customers are advised not to travel.

"Refunds will be provided and customers should visit gwr.com for more information.”

There will be no train service, or an extremely limited service, available for the following journeys:

  • London Paddington - Swindon - Bath Spa - Bristol Temple Meads
  • London Paddington - Swindon - Bristol Parkway - Newport - Cardiff Central - Swansea
  • London Paddington - Reading - Taunton - Exeter St Davids - Plymouth - Penzance
  • London Paddington - Reading - Oxford - Evesham - Worcester - Great Malvern - Hereford
  • London Paddington - Reading - Swindon - Gloucester - Cheltenham Spa