Passengers travelling home on Christmas Eve have faced delays after railway services from Gatwick Airport were disrupted.
Great Western Railway (GWR) said services between Reading and Gatwick Airport would be disrupted on Christmas Eve due to a shortage of train staff.
The London-bound M2, between junctions 5 and 4 – near the Medway services, was closed after a woman died in a crash shortly before 12.50pm, Kent Police said.
The woman, from the Faversham area, Kent, was pronounced dead at the scene and there were no other passengers inside the car or vehicles involved, the force said.
The M27 is now also closed completely in both directions from Junction 9 at Whiteley to Junction 11 at Fareham East until 4am on January 4.
The closure is affecting journeys between Southampton and Portsmouth – a signed diversion via the A27 is in place, but delays are expected between 10am and 4pm daily.
In a post on X, GWR said: “Due to a shortage of train crew between Reading and Gatwick Airport the line is disrupted.
“Train services to and from these stations may be subject to disruption on all routes. Disruption is expected until 17:00.”
The RAC said it was expecting festive getaway trips by car to peak on Christmas Eve at 4.2 million, with regular commuter traffic “likely to be far lighter”.
A spokesperson for the RAC said: “Drivers should ensure their vehicles are road ready: checking tyres are free of damage; have plenty of tread and are properly inflated; and ensuring oil and coolant levels are correct.
“Headlight aim should also be adjusted according to the load being carried, to reduce the chances of dazzling other drivers. We’re also expecting a rise in breakdowns as a result of the switch to colder weather.”
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The AA estimated that there were more than 22 million cars on the roads on Christmas Eve.
Shaun Jones, of AA expert patrol, said: “We know drivers will be heading out for all sorts of festive fun — from pantomimes and Christmas markets to family visits and scenic walks.
“But with so many sleighs on the tarmac, patience will be your best present this year. Pack essentials, keep your tank or EV charge topped up, and don’t let congestion steal your Christmas sparkle.
“If you’re leaving your car parked over the festive period, start it for a few minutes every couple of days to ensure it’s ready for January.
“The M27 closure adds an extra twist to the seasonal story, so if you’re travelling in Hampshire, think about alternative routes.”
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