A stretch of railway line will stay closed while accident investigators try to work out why a train derailed in Lewes yesterday (Thursday 13 August).
Services continue to be disrupted as a result of the incident. Trains are unable to run through the area and major disruption is expected to continue until further notice.
Late last night, Network Rail and Southern Rail issued a joint statement about the train that derailed shortly before 4pm.
They said: “Our primary concern is for our passengers, our staff and all those involved in the incident.
“Details are still emerging and we are working closely with Network Rail and the emergency services.
“Emergency response procedures have been mobilised. This involved our staff attending at the scene and providing any help they can.
“Our priority at this stage is the safety and well-being of those involved.”
Network Rail’s Sussex route director Lucy McAuliffe said: “Firstly, I am shocked and saddened by what’s happened today.
“My immediate thoughts and that of our teams are with the injured, their family and friends and with all those who have been caught up and affected by this incident.
“Our teams are working closely with industry partners, response teams and the emergency services to ensure everyone receives the care and support they need. That is our absolute priority right now.
“The railway between Lewes and Haywards Heath is closed and is likely to remain closed while the emergency response continues and specialist teams carry out the complex task of assessing damage to the train and infrastructure.
“I understand that people will have lots of questions about what has happened today. I’d like to reassure everyone that we are working closely with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch who are on site to establish exactly what’s happened.
“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.
“I’d like to thank the emergency services and the wider railway family for their professionalism and swift response today.
“This is an evolving and complex situation. We will provide updates as soon as we have a clearer understanding of the recovery work required and when the railway can safely reopen.
“In the meantime, customers should check with their train operator for the latest travel advice before they travel.
“I can only apologise to those of you who have been impacted by this incident but I must thank the local community and the response teams for everything that they have done to support the response to this situation.”
Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) runs Southern. The company’s chief executive John Whitehurst said: “I am deeply saddened by what has happened today and my thoughts are with everyone who has been affected, especially those who have been injured, along with their families, friends and loved ones.
“Our absolute priority is the welfare of our passengers and colleagues. We are working closely with the emergency services, Network Rail and wider industry partners to ensure those involved receive the care, support and assistance they need.
“I would like to thank the emergency services, our staff and colleagues across the railway for the professionalism, dedication and swift response they have shown in what are extremely challenging circumstances.
“A full investigation is now under way. We are working closely with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch and other authorities to establish the facts and we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to support this.
“I also recognise the impact this incident is having on customers and local communities. Our teams will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available and as the recovery effort progresses.
“Right now, our focus remains on supporting those affected and assisting the emergency response.”
