VANDALS caused havoc on train services by placing a concrete block on the line and cutting wires in crucial signalling equipment.

Services leaving Manningtree towards London were delayed during rush-hour on Monday night after a concrete slab was found on the rails near the station.

A British Transport Police spokesman said: “We were called to the line between Manningtree station and Ardleigh station at 5.30pm on Monday, following reports of a train hitting an object on the track. We attended the scene and found a large concrete slab close to the line.

“Officers believe the slabwas deliberately placed on the track.

“No damage was caused to the train involved and the incident is under investigation.”

The line was reopened by 6.20pm.

Earlier in the day, rail services on the Mayflower line between Harwich and Manningtree were delayed after crooks cut wires in kit near Mistley station at 12.45pm.

Passengers faced delays until 3pm as Network Rail Engineers tried to fix the issue, and services returned to normal shortly afterwards. The equipment is used to detect when trains are in the station.

Therefore, drivers were forced to travel slower than usual on the route.

Anyone with information should call British Transport Police on 0800 405040, text 61016 quoting reference 415, or call crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

 An 18-year-old man was questioned by British Transport Police after he was arrested on suspicion of trespassing and causing danger on the railway. He was later bailed until January 15.