TRAIN passengers were delayed for more than two hours when an engine caught fire just outside Ipswich.The drama happened yesterday on the Norwich-bound train from London.

TRAIN passengers were delayed for more than two hours when an engine caught fire just outside Ipswich.

The drama happened yesterday on the Norwich-bound train from London.

It had just left Ipswich station when it was noticed there was a fault in the locomotive at the back of the train.

Peter Meades, spokesman for Anglia Railways said it was unclear whether flames had been seen or whether it was just smoking, but as a result emergency procedures had to be put in place.

He said that passengers were moved further up the train and that overhead cables were turned off to avoid any danger of catching fire.

The fire brigade were also called out to check the train over and to give permission for it to be moved.

The train had come to a standstill on a stretch of line just passing through Bramford and was visible from Papermill Lane.

Other trains were also delayed by around 90 minutes while the train was checked out and moved off the line.

Another engine dragged the stricken locomotive into Ipswich station where after a near two hour wait, the passengers were transferred to another train to carry on with their journey.

Mr Meades said: "We apologise to any passengers that were affected.

"When these things happen we have to put in strict procedures which meant that delays were longer than expected.

"People on the affected trains will be entitled to compensation and can claim from the Customer Relations at Ipswich."