Essex commuters are facing rush-hour misery after rail services were cancelled due to hot weather.

Greater Anglia has announced it is withdrawing some afternoon and evening trains due to speed restrictions on the tracks.

A spokesman said: "Because of the predicted high temperatures that are forecast, Network Rail will be introducing speed restrictions on parts of the network between 11am and 8pm to help protect the infrastructure in this hot weather.

"During this time, train services operating between Liverpool Street and Colchester/Norwich and Southend Victoria will be subject to some alterations and cancellations."

It is understood the speed restrictions have been implemented due to dated overhead wires, which are particularly prominent near Shenfield and on the Southend branch line.

A long-term project to replace the 1950s wires along the entire Greater Anglia route is in progress.

As of 3.30pm, Greater Anglia had cancelled 14 services, including six trains going to and from Southend Victoria.

Essex operator c2c has announced it has no plans to cancel services.

For more information on Greater Anglia disruption, visit journeycheck.com/greateranglia