HIGH winds led to delays for rail commuters when a tree was blown down onto overhead cables.

The tree fell onto a section of line between Westcliff and Southend Central stations, on the c2c line, at about 8am, this morning.

Trains continued to run between Leigh and London Fenchurch Street, but buses were laid on to replace services between Leigh and Shoebury.

People with pre-paid tickets were able to use them on the One railway line, between Southend Victoria and London Liverpool Street.

Graham Bashford, c2c spokesman, said: "The tree was removed at 9.30am. Network rail was called in to undertake repair work."

A limited rail service resumed between Leigh and Shoebury, at 11am.

Mr Bashford said he was hopeful a full service would resume by the evening rush tonight.