On Saturday, 28 February, around 200 people gathered at Selby Abbey to honour the ten lives lost and the many others forever changed in the Selby rail disaster, marking 25 years since one of the UK’s most devastating rail disasters.

Representatives from London North Eastern Railway (LNER), alongside industry partners and emergency services, paid tribute before attending a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial garden in Great Heck.

The events of 28 February 2001 remain stark. A Land Rover left the M62 and came to rest on the East Coast Mainline. A Great North Eastern Railway Intercity service from Newcastle to London then struck the vehicle and derailed. Moments later, an oncoming Freightliner collided with the derailed passenger service.

Tragically, ten lives were lost, including both drivers, and a further eighty-two were injured.

25 years on, the names, faces, and stories of those affected remain in the hearts of loved ones and colleagues. The service was a powerful act of community spirit and remembrance.

“It’s really important that we come together to remember all those who sadly lost their lives and were injured at Great Heck 25 years ago. Our thoughts will always remain with those affected by this tragedy.”

Gunnar Lindahl, joint operations director for Network Rail and LNER.

“Saturday was dedicated to remembering and honouring those involved in the tragic incident at Great Heck 25 years ago. It was a privilege to join with the families of those who lost loved ones, alongside survivors, emergency service workers, rail colleagues, and the local community to pay our respects to those who lost their lives. They will always be remembered.”

Warrick Dent, Deputy Managing Director at LNER.