Gatwick Airport Express train services cancelled after squirrels board and 'refuse to leave'

Train services on the Gatwick Express were suspended on Thursday evening after two squirrels boarded a train and refused to leave.

The incident occurred at around 6.30pm when the train was about to depart from Gatwick Airport station. The squirrels were spotted running around the train and climbing on the seats.

Passengers were evacuated from the train and the station was closed while staff attempted to catch the squirrels. However, the squirrels proved to be too elusive and the station remained closed for over an hour.

Gatwick Express services were suspended between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria during the incident. Passengers were advised to use alternative transport, such as the Southern or Thameslink trains.

The station was eventually reopened at around 7.45pm after the squirrels were finally caught. The train services were then able to resume, but with some delays.

A spokesperson for Gatwick Airport said: "We apologise for the disruption caused to passengers this evening. The safety of our passengers is our top priority and we took the decision to close the station while we attempted to catch the squirrels."

"We are grateful to our staff for their efforts in catching the squirrels and ensuring the safety of our passengers."