FIREFIGHTERS were called to Hamworthy railway station this afternoon after a fire broke out on the tracks.

At least one train was halted short of the platform while the incident was being dealt with, with more services affected throughout the afternoon.

A crew from Poole fire station attended the scene, just after 3.20pm on Saturday, and confirmed a fire on the tracks.

A Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "It was a fire on the conductor rail."

Network Rail engineers also attended the station, to assist with isolating the power supply.

Meanwhile, rail passengers were affected throughout the afternoon due to the subsequent delays.

One passenger told the Echo: "Three foot length or rail is melted. The fire is now out, Network Rail are at the scene as well.

"The train was halted short of the platform by the fire brigade, its been there for 55minutes."

On Saturday, around 4.30pm, South Western Railway said: "Due to a safety inspection of the track between Poole and Wareham all lines are blocked. Trains running through these stations may be cancelled or delayed.

"Disruption is expected until the end of the day."