A freight train derailment at Barking in east London has disrupted rail freight operations serving key container terminals in the south-east, prompting shippers to seek alternative arrangements for inland movements.

The incident occurred at around noon on Friday, 23 October, when a GB Railfreight intermodal train travelling from London Gateway towards Hams Hall, Birmingham, derailed near Barking station.

Several container flat wagons were badly damaged, including displaced bogies and detached axles.

The derailment caused extensive damage to railway track, overhead line equipment and rolling stock.

More than 1 km of track was torn up as storms affected the region on Friday, with repair work expected to continue deep into this week.

Rail freight operations at London Gateway Port have subsequently been reduced. DP World said it was working with customers and Network Rail to limit disruption while repairs to the network are completed.

Tilbury Port terminals are also affected. Forth Ports has informed customers that neither terminal will receive rail services this week.

According to media reports, carrier Hapag-Lloyd has also warned that inland cargo movements are likely to face disruption.

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