An "extremely" reduced train service is running on Southend Pier, bosses have announced.

Bosses have revealed an extremely reduced pier train service is running due to "technical problems".

They are working to rectify the situation by using the limited passenger space in the tram to transport pre-booked boat passengers.

However, anyone else wanting to go up the pier by tram could now face long waiting times until the main train is back in action.

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A Southend Pier and Railway spokesman said: "We are working hard to rectify the situation and are using the limited passenger space in our tram to transport pre-booked boat passengers and the less mobile as priority passengers.

"Anyone else wanting to go up the pier by tram could face a long wait time for this facility until the main train is back in service.

"We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and are awaiting further reports for a more definitive timescale on the completion of any remedial work."