South East Coast Ambulance Service have released a full statement after a train derailment near Lewes railway station.
Emergency services remain at the scene following the incident this evening.
150 people were onboard the train at the time of the incident.
The Ambulance service have now confirmed that two patients have suffered serious injuries, and nine patients have sustained less serious injuries.
Patients have now been transported to local hospitals or a local community centre, where they are being supported by other agencies.
Members of the public have been asked to stay away from the local area whilst the emergency services carry out their work.
The full statement is as follows
“SECAmb are continuing to respond to a major incident following a train derailment near Lewes Railway Station this afternoon.”
“Ambulance crews, specialist responders and colleagues from partner emergency services remain at the scene. There were approximately 150 people on board the train at the time of the incident.”
“At this stage, we can confirm that two patients have sustained serious injuries and a further nine patients have sustained less serious injuries.”
“Patients have been assessed and treated at the scene, with some transported to local hospitals for further treatment and care.”
“A number of passengers who did not require hospital treatment have been taken to a local community centre, where they are being supported by partner agencies.”
“This remains a complex and ongoing multi-agency response. Our priority continues to be providing care to those affected and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.”
“We would ask the public to avoid the area where possible and allow emergency services to continue their work”
Responses
The particular train being 1Z69 (Paignton to Birmingham with two Diesels powered (according to webcam microphones) at 19:10:19 through Dawlish on Thursday 13/08/26.
I am greatly concerned for all rail passengers safety during the latest, and apparently the highest temperatures on the Network. Previously trains operated at reduced speeds. However the speed that the charter Northern Belle (running 49 minutes late) passing through Dawlish and Dawlish Warren was such that the webcams failed to record clearly all details due to the speed. It was running like a “bat out of hell”. Should an accident occur on a Charter Train, then the ramifications would be severe for the whole Charter Industry.
Although the particular train was “planned for 95 mph max”, it is unclear when travelling on a premium train, that being jolted around and not being able to see the passing scenery at such speeds is deemed a pleasure.
Examples on the East Coast Main line at 125 mph are a complete blur on viewing through carriage windows.
Under present temperature and normal circumstances, surely a reassessment of travelling speeds being reduced to say 60 mph would be more satisfying and enjoyable for the Premium Travelling Public; and if the travelling public wanted to arrive sooner then they could catch normal high speed IET trains.