Rail network safety assured after East Sussex train derailment
A derailment in Lewes sent 20 people to the hospital on Thursday evening
Last updated 3 hours ago
A railway executive has reassured the public that train travel remains safe during hot weather despite a rare incident in East Sussex that led to 20 people being hospitalised.
John Whitehurst, chief executive of Greater Thameslink Railway, emphasised the rarity of train derailments after a Southern Rail service went off track, describing it as "a very serious incident".
The derailment occurred near Lewes, with British Transport Police declaring a major incident response on Thursday afternoon when three carriages overturned.
The Southern train, bound for Eastbourne from London Victoria, was carrying approximately 150 passengers who were evacuated after the incident.
Two individuals were transported to major trauma centres due to severe injuries.
"A full investigation is now under way with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch and at this stage we’re working with them to ensure we can establish the cause but also support their investigation fully," Mr Whitehurst confirmed during an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme.
He assured listeners that specialised teams are assessing the disruption and investigating the cause.
When questioned about rail safety during high temperatures, Mr Whitehurst stated, "The railway is safe. These types of incidents are incredibly rare," adding that the railway implements inspections and temporary measures to ensure safety when necessary.
On Friday, rail staff, police, and investigators from the Rail Accident Investigations Bureau (RAIB) returned to the site to continue assessments.
Passenger Rachel Heath, who was on board the derailed train, recounted her experience to the Today programme describing the event as "absolutely terrifying."
She recounted, "The train just started jostling, kind of bumping up and down, and then jostling from side to side like a seesaw, and everyone was screaming. I just remember looking around and seeing so much panic and fear in so many people’s eyes."
South East Coast Ambulance Service’s deputy chief paramedic officer Michael Bradfield detailed the mix of injuries among those hospitalised, noting that 18 were transported by ambulance, while two others arrived at the hospital independently.
"We have conveyed 18 people to several hospitals in the region," he said during a press conference in East Sussex.
Network Rail's route director for Sussex, Lucy McAuliffe, emphasised the ongoing assessments and investigation, stating, "At the moment, it would be inappropriate to comment as to the cause of this incident but more information will be provided as soon as we can."
Southern Rail’s website advised customers of significant service disruptions between Lewes and Haywards Heath, noting that trains are unable to run between these stations and will be cancelled.
Meanwhile, Lewes District Council is urging travellers to plan alternative routes due to ongoing disruptions, particularly with Eastbourne’s annual air show taking place over the weekend.
Christine Robinson, deputy leader of the council, praised the rapid response and support from emergency services and local residents offering help.
"Their compassion and willingness to step forward in a moment of crisis was truly heartening, and I thank every one of them," she said.
Community members, including local resident Oriana Evans and her son, assisted affected passengers upon their arrival at a nearby community centre used as a temporary shelter for casualties.
"I walked and chatted to some of them in shock really," Evans, a 54-year-old jewellery maker, shared.