Some rush hour trains will be cancelled this evening because of the hot weather.

Speed restrictions will be in place on the Greater Anglia line between London and Essex throughout the day.

A Greater Anglia spokesman said: “Owing to the forecast high temperatures, which can cause the metal tracks and overhead line equipment to expand, Greater Anglia and Network Rail will be imposing temporary speed restrictions on some routes, to reduce the risk of damage to the railway infrastructure."

Trains will be running at reduced speed from 12noon to 7pm, while some rush hour services have been cancelled to ease congestion on the line.

The spokesman said: “We are sorry if your journey is affected by these changes and we thank you for your patience and understanding whilst the temporary speed restrictions are in place.”

In total, 17 services have been cancelled today, including three trains from Liverpool Street to Witham between 5pm and 6pm.

Check which services have been cancelled by visiting journeycheck.com/greateranglia

* Passengers on the branch line between Marks Tey and Sudbury have had to endure a replacement bus service due to a broken down train.

Disruption is expected until 2pm today.