Trains have been cancelled and replaced with buses after a power failure.

The line cannot be used between Dover Priory and Folkestone Central as engineers work to fix the fault.

Service operator Southeastern posted about the issue shortly after 8.30am and its website says disruption is expected until 9pm.

“Network Rail has advised us that the electricity supply to the signalling system between Dover and Folkestone has failed,” it states.

“Engineers are on site working to fix the fault.”

Network Rail says engineers have identified a blown insulator pot, which sits underneath and supports the conductor or ‘third rail’ that provides the power to trains.

Services between Dover and London, including St Pancras International and Charing Cross, may be delayed, revised or cancelled.

Buses replace trains between Dover and Ramsgate all day anyway due to planned engineering work.

Replacement bus services are also running between Dover Priory and Folkestone Central.

Passengers can also use their ticket on three Stagecoach bus routes at no extra cost.

These include the 81 between Sandwich, Deal, Walmer and Dover Priory; the 93 between Deal, Walmer, Martin Mill, Kearsney and Dover Priory; and the 102 between Dover Priory and Folkestone.

Southeastern has advised people to check their journey before they travel and allow extra time to complete their journey.