The rain line between Norwich and Lowestoft is set to be closed until Monday following damage caused during last Friday's floods.Network Rail had hoped to re-open the track later this week, but has revised its estimate after revealing a third of a mile of track had been severely damaged in the Haddiscoe area.

The main line between Norwich and Lowestoft will be closed until Monday following damage caused during last Friday's floods.

Network Rail had hoped to reopen the track later this week, but has revised its estimate after finding that a third of a mile of track had been severely damaged in the Haddiscoe area.

Patrick Hallgate, Anglia Route director for Network Rail, said: “The damage to the tracks and surrounding embankments has been quite extensive, but our engineers are working hard to repair the track and resume services as soon as we can.”

Last week's flooding washed ballast away, leaving large holes under the line.

A shuttle train service is running to Reedham and One is operating a bus replacement service between Norwich and Lowestoft.

Passengers are advised to check with national railway inquiries on 08457 48 49 50 or the One train company before they travel. Latest details are available at www.onerailway. com.

Travellers whose journeys include the stations at Somerleyton or Haddiscoe should contact One on 0845 600 7245 for details of alternative services.

Meanwhile, the bascule bridge in Lowestoft was closed from 8pm last night for emergency checks following damage during the floods. the bridge was due to reopen at 6am today. A Highways Agency official said the closure was required to test electrical systems, which had to be repaired.

It is not part of the scheduled programme of closures for the ongoing £2.3m maintenance programme, which resumes from 8pm on Saturday until 6am the following Tuesday.