NETWORK RAIL and Great Western Railway are preparing for the onslaught of Storm Ingrid along the coastal route at Dawlish.

Rail services will be suspended tonight between Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot as the storm is bringing high winds and heavy rain.

Rail bosses say there is a ‘significant risk’ of sea water breaching the sea wall at Dawlish and debris brought onto the line.

A spokesman for GWR said: ‘Predicted heavy and persistent rain in the south west, combined with gusts of up to 60mph in coastal areas during high tide, represents a significant risk of sea water breaching the Dawlish sea wall, and debris on the railway.’

The line will be closed from 8.30 tonight, Friday, until at least 2pm tomorrow, Saturday when safety inspections can be carried out.

Disruption to services is expected until 4pm on Saturday.