The local community jumped into action following train collision near Bedford
Today marks one week since the fatal train collision near Bedford
In the aftermath of the fatal train collision near Bedford, many local residents and businesses offered help in whichever way they can to those impacted by the crash.
The major incident took place one week ago today (19th June 2026), claiming the life of driver Shaun Burton and injuring around 100 people.
Currently, 38 people remain in hospital, including three in critical condition.
‘Bedford is always quick to step up’
Among many people in the community who offered help was Alfonso Bravoco, owner of Mamma Concetta in Bedford town centre.
He paused service at his restaurant and delivered as many pizza's as he could to Bedford Hospital, which brought “big smiles” to the NHS staff.
Mr Bravoco said: “We rushed them through and stopped service and as soon as they were done, I got in the car and off I went.”
He added: “Whenever something like this happens, not necessarily a train crash, but Bedford is always quick to step up.”
“It’s not just me, a lot of people stepped up and helped. That was really good to see, and sort of brought home what Bedford is really like.”
Organisations helping emergency services:
Local organisations were working at the scene alongside the emergency services, offering them a hot meal and mental health support.
Two Rapid Relief Teams, from Biggleswade and Luton, responded to help support those working on the front-line.
Head of Operations at the charity, Ross Norman said: “It was just an honour to be able to provide them with a hot meal, as a little token of thanks, keep going, we respect what you're doing.
“It enable them to recharge and carry on with the great work they were doing.”
The Salvation Army’s food truck had also been on the scene over the weekend since the incident.
Captain Lydia McLean said: “It was a thorough privilege to be able to serve in those exceptional circumstances and to bring the compassion and the love of God in those moments.”
Politicians praising community effort
The Conservative MP for Mid Beds, Blake Stephenson said: “I've heard so many great stories of local residents putting themselves forward to help passengers who were stranded.
“Also, residents in Wixams were passing water and food over the fence to those that were stranded.
“It’s obviously a devastating incident but in these times of adversity, it's also quite nice to see the community coming together.”
The Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander spoke in the House of Commons earlier this week, “As I’ve said before, I truly believe the best of us show up in the worst of times - and that is again the case here”, she said.