Windsor, Slough and Maidenhead commuters were left in chaos last night after Paddington station was closed and rail users evacuated for three hours after an electrical fire.

Passengers were left stranded or were forced to make their way by the underground to Waterloo as an alternative train service to Windsor's Riverside for those trying to get home, having then to walk to Windsor central for trains back to Slough and connections to Maidenhead and Langley.

Paddington was cleared at 7.30pm yesterday following a small fire in an electrical intake room on the basement level, a London Fire Brigade (LFB) spokesman said.

But a Network Rail statement at midnight confirmed the situation had since been "resolved", with all platforms reopened.

An LFB spokesman said firefighters left the scene after the fire burnt itself out.

Passengers were let back into the station shortly before 10.30pm to wait on the concourse, when a special announcement was made that a couple of trains could be departing.

However no trains to our area left the station before 11.25pm.  

A Network Rail statement said: "All platforms at London Paddington Station have reopened following a suspected electrical fire at the station earlier.

"Most passengers waiting at Paddington are now on their way, and the last trains into the station are expected to arrive shortly.

"Thanks to all our passengers for their continued patience this evening as London Fire Brigade and Network Rail worked to reopen the station."