More than 40 passengers had to be evacuated from a train after it crashed into a level crossing barrier this morning.

The incident happened on the Arundel to Horsham line near Billingshurst at around 8.15am.

Forty three commuters were transferred to another train which was brought up alongside.

Govia Thameslink Railway said part of the track was damaged and needed to be repaired.

Engineers believed a car hit the crossing which put it in the path of the train.

The Argus: Engineers had to repair part of the track after a train hit a level crossing barrier near BillingshurstEngineers had to repair part of the track after a train hit a level crossing barrier near Billingshurst (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

Services to Bognor and London Victoria were among those cancelled due to the incident.

A GTR spokesman said: "Shortly after 8.15am the driver of one of our trains reported he had hit a level crossing barrier that was foul of the line near Adversane, between Billingshurst and Pulborough.

"There are no injuries to anyone on board but the train could not move forward because its power pick up has been damaged.

"There are approximately 43 passengers who were safely transferred to a train which we brought alongside.”

Trains diverted via Hove to get to London.