Rail passengers travelling between Oxford and Didcot experienced delays this morning following problems at a level crossing.

The technical fault at Appleford level crossing near Didcot delays services by up to 40 minutes.

First Great Western spokesman Lance Cole said barriers at the level crossing in Main Road, the B4016, were jammed in the up position.

Network Rail is aware of the problem and engineers are now trying to correct the fault.

Spokesman Nick King said the fault occurred at 6.10am and the B4016 Main Road in the village had been closed to traffic until the morning peak travelling period was finished.

He added: "After 9am, our engineers on site will fix the signalling fault. This has caused significant delays to services."

Mr Cole said there were additional delays being caused by a signalling electrical failure near Swindon.