A grass fire near Scrubs Lane in North Kensington caused major disruption to rail services serving London Paddington and Heathrow Airport on Saturday afternoon.
Smoke was seen billowing above the Paddington area, with images posted on social media showing a large plume rising over north-west London.
The London Fire Brigade said six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were sent to the blaze after it was reported at about 4.11pm. Crews from Hammersmith, Paddington, Ealing and surrounding stations were responding.
The fire affected nearby railway lines, with services on the Elizabeth line and the Great Western Main Line into Paddington disrupted.
National Rail said the electricity supply had failed because of a fire next to the track, blocking all lines between London Paddington and Heathrow’s terminals, as well as routes towards Reading. Major disruption was expected to continue until the end of Saturday.
Great Western Railway services to and from Paddington were cancelled, while Elizabeth line trains were suspended between Paddington and Heathrow and between Paddington and Reading. Heathrow Express services were also halted.
Passengers travelling to or from Heathrow were advised to allow extra time for their journeys and to check before travelling. The Piccadilly line, which also serves the airport, was reported to be experiencing delays.
