Hundreds of rail commuters faced major delays this morning when high winds brought down tree branches, hitting overhead power lines and catching light.
Firefighters were called to reports of a train hitting a tree near Manningtree at 6.40am.
But it later emerged a branch had fallen across overhead power lines and caught fire.
Services between Colchester and Manningtree had to be suspended while emergency services attended the scene behind the Ardleigh Foxash estate.
Commuter Mike Treacy, who was travelling into Colchester from Ipswich, said his train was stopped at Manningtree where replacement coach services were being put on to get people to Colchester.
"I've been stood here for 40 minutes with about 200 people," he said.
"There was an announcement by the conductor that a train had hit a large branch which had been brought down by the gales. That branch somehow ended up on the overhead power lines."
Rail operator One said trains were being delayed or cancelled, and passengers could expect short-notice alterations to services.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article