A ROAD is closed and trains are being delayed after a car smashed into a level crossing.

Sussex Police were called to Wick, near Littlehampton, shortly after 1pm to deal with the incident.

The Argus: Network Rail at the scene of the crash at a level crossing near LittlehamptonNetwork Rail at the scene of the crash at a level crossing near Littlehampton

The A284 Lyminster Road is currently closed both ways from Mill Lane to the Locomotive Pub, the AA has reported.

Train services between Littlehampton and Worthing have also been disrupted as a result of the crash, with the level crossing barriers damaged after being hit by a vehicle.

The Argus: There is a road closure near Wick as a result of the crashThere is a road closure near Wick as a result of the crash

All lines were initially blocked, but the damaged barriers have since been cleared and trains are now able to run again.

However, a Southern Rail spokesman warned that "trains between Barnham/Littlehampton and Worthing may be delayed, cancelled or diverted until approximately 3.30pm".

The Argus: The damage caused to the level crossing Credit: Southern RailThe damage caused to the level crossing Credit: Southern Rail

He said: "Emergency services are on site in the Angmering area, following a vehicle colliding with a level crossing.

"Trains will be able to run at reduced speeds through the affected area.

"Some alterations already in place will remain so, please check journey planners before departure.

"Due to the number of different services operating through the area, there will be a number of trains immediately affected, as well as their next workings, so Southern will manage the service carefully to return trains to the timetable as quickly as possible.

"Ticket acceptance is in place with local Brighton and Hove Buses, as well as Stagecoach Buses - please use them if they can aid your journey."

Update

At 4.30pm, Southern Rail issued an update to say that "disruption caused by a road vehicle colliding with level crossing barriers between Littlehampton and Worthing has now (been) cleared".

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