A TRAIN was forced in to an emergency stop at Caerphilly train station after smoke was spotted billowing out of the train.

Passengers were evacuated from the 7.24am Arriva Trains Wales service from Rhymney to Penarth.

A spokesman for Arriva Trains Wales said: "The driver of the train spotted smoke coming out of the front of the train.

"He performed an emergency stop and passengers were evacuated.

"We apologise to all our customers who have been affected by this.

"We are working with Network Rail and the emergency services to return services to normal."

The fire service were called to the scene. Arriva Trains Wales have stressed that the incident was not a fire, and a mobile train fitter was called to the scene so that the track can be cleared.

A spokesman from the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: "A call was taken at 8.19am this morning to reports of an incident at Caerphilly Station. 

"A crew from Caerphilly attended and on arrival all passengers had self-evacuated onto the station platform.

"South Wales Fire and Rescue Service worked closely with rail staff to remove the train and reopen the track as quickly as possible to avoid disruption to passengers during this busy period."

Arriva Trains Wales have announced that the line has now been cleared, although delays are expected to continue throughout the morning. 

To minimise disruption, passengers's rail tickets will be valid on Stagecoach buses.

Services are expected to return to normal by 12pm.