A SIX-wagon freight train carrying aviation fuel from Mossend, Glasgow to Prestwick in Ayrshire derailed and caught fire near Stewarton early this morning.

The incident involving a DB Schenker train happened on a single track section between Barrhead and Kilmarnock at around 06.00.

British Transport Police said the driver of the train had not been injured and no other injuries had been reported, but the five derailed wagons damaged an electricity pylon, cutting off power to a nearby housing estate.

Firefighters were dealing with one blazing wagon, and a thick pall of smoke hangs over the area.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has been called in to launch an investigation along with Network Rail.

Buses are replacing trains between Barrhead and Kilmarnock, and the Glasgow – Carlisle service running via Barassie. The nearby A735 road has been closed.