Rail passengers are facing disruption in and out of central London this evening following a fire.

The disruption follows a fire near the railway at London Bridge in Bermondsey, with emergency services responding to a large blaze which has sent thick smoke across parts of the capital and affected rail line.

Passengers travelling on Southeastern, Thameslink, and Southern services through London Bridge are among those affected.

15 fire engines and approximately 100 firefighters have been called to the scene.

The London Fire Brigade has also issued an “avoid the area” warning while crews continue to tackle the blaze.

Services are currently unable to run normally through London Bridge, with trains being cancelled, diverted or revised.

Trains are being diverted to London Victoria, while Hastings line services are starting and terminating at Tonbridge.

Tickets are accepted at no extra cost on London Underground services between London terminals, the Elizabeth line, Docklands Light Railway, High-Speed services, and on Thameslink and Southern services via reasonable routes.

Passengers are advised to use alternative routes where possible and to check before travelling, with disruption expected to continue until around 8.45pm.

Southeastern has warned that services and alternative routes are likely to be busier than normal, and passengers should allow extra time for their journeys.

Travellers are encouraged to check their journey before travelling using National Rail’s real-time Journey Planner.

Those delayed by the disruption may be eligible for compensation and are advised to keep their ticket and note their journey details to support any claim.

This is a breaking story. More to follow.