A Hamilton man is in hospital after being struck by a train in the centre of the city early Wednesday.

Police were called by CN Rail at around 2:45 a.m. after a man was hit by a train on the tracks at Victoria Avenue near Shaw Street. Police don't yet know his age.

The train was travelling westbound on the north track when the incident happened. The police Collision Reconstruction Unit is on scene continuing their investigation.

The 44-car train will be held up for some time, police say. They are asking motorists to use an alternate route. Any north/south traffic passing through the track area will be delayed.

CN Rail police are also on scene assisting with the investigation.