Three hundred passengers on a Sussex-bound train escaped injury last night when two coaches were derailed.

An investigation was under way today into what happened to the rear two carriages of the 7.40pm Charing Cross to Hastings train operated by Connex South East.

They stayed upright after the incident as the train left Charing Cross.

Ambulances went to the scene as passengers were helped from the eight-coach train by station staff but there were no injuries.

They were able to step on to the platform as the train had not cleared the station when the derailment occurred.

Some passengers were taken home in taxis while others were put on alternative train services.

The derailment caused huge delays to train services to East Sussex through Kent last night as platforms 5 and 6 at Charing Cross had to be closed.

There were also delays during today's rush hour as the derailed train remained at the platform while the cause of the accident was investigated.

A spokeswoman for Connex South East said: "At the moment, it is not clear what the problem was.

"The Rail Inspectorate, Railtrack and our own internal safety experts are looking at all possibilities. Railtrack are concentrating their inquiries on the state of the track.

"We are trying to ensure delays are kept to a minimum throughout the day as we anticipate more off-peak traffic because of the funeral service for the Queen Mother."