File picture: PA

Signal failures have hit rail services between Slough and Paddington stations this morning.

First Great Western said “a major failure of line side equipment” after a fire yesterday in an equipment room meant that only two of the four railway lines in and out of Paddington are available for use this morning.

As a result, a significantly reduced service is in operation between Reading and Paddington.

Network Rail engineers are currently working to fix the problem and a normal service is expected to be resumed no later than 3pm today.

In addition, a signalling problem at Heathrow means the Heathrow Express and Heathrow Connect services from London Paddington are currently suspended.

And Transport for London has reported severe delays on the Bakerloo line because of a signal failure at Paddington underground station. Tickets accepted on London buses, London Overground and First Capital Connect services.

Commuters have been warned to expect severe delays during this morning’s rush hour.

In the meantime, First Great Western tickets will be accepted on South West Trains services between Reading and London Waterloo, London buses in the outer London area, London Underground services from Ealing Broadway, Virgin Trains/Cross Country services to London Euston and Chiltern Services via Banbury to Marylebone.