TRANSPORT police have launched an enquiry after a push bike was hit by a train at Sidcup station.

Major disruption was caused to train services after the late night Charing Cross to Dartford service struck the bike at around 12.47am this morning.

Fifefighters from Sidcup were called to scene after the impact started a blaze which they then put out.

A spokesman for Southeastern railway said: “Our 0.04am Charing Cross to Dartford train struck a bicycle at Sidcup station which had been thrown onto the tracks. It caused a small fire beneath the train which is why the fire brigade were called. CCTV images have been forwarded to British Transport Police who are investigating.”

He said: “The train involved was delayed for 29 minutes and another train, the 0.36am Dartford to Grove Park was 22 minutes late. The 0.14am Charing Cross to Gillingham was 18 minutes late after being held at Dartford to connect with the delayed train involved and we had to divert the 11.42pm Faversham to Victoria via Bexleyheath and that too suffered a 27 minute delay.”

The British Transport Police has issued a warning to anyone thinking of trespassing on the railway.

A spokesman said: “Anyone who trespasses on the railways to place objects on the line not only risks their life but those of passengers using the railway network. Objects can cause damage to trains and in a worst case scenario can cause derailments.”

Anyone with information should call British Transport Police on 0800 405040.