SEVERAL Eurostar trains have been cancelled after arsonists carried out attacks on the high-speed network.
The rail operator, which runs international services from London St Pancras, confirmed on Friday that trains would be delayed due to ongoing issues over the Channel.
It is understood that around 800,000 customers have been affected, France's state-owned rail operator SNCF has said.
The disruption comes hours ahead of the opening of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and as millions embark on summer getaways.
In a statement, rail operator SNCF said: “Last night, the SNCF was the victim of several acts of vandalism on the Atlantic, Northern and Eastern high-speed lines.
“Fires were deliberately set to damage our installations.”
Eurostar said: “Due to coordinated acts of malice in France, affecting the high-speed line between Paris and Lille, all high-speed trains going to and coming from Paris are being diverted via the classic line today Friday, July 26.
“This extends the journey time by around an hour-and-a-half. Several trains have been cancelled.
“Eurostar’s teams are fully mobilised in stations, in the call centres, and onboard to ensure that all passengers are informed and can reach their destination.”
The company said customers were being informed via email, text and on the Eurostar website. Any affected passengers can cancel or refund their tickets or modify their journey free of charge.
