A major emergency response was swiftly launched near Lewes railway station following the derailment of a passenger train. The incident, believed to involve a Southern service, occurred shortly before 4pm on Thursday, August 13th.
British Transport Police confirmed that officers were dispatched at 3:54 PM after receiving reports that a train had left its tracks. In an official statement, the force announced, “Officers are currently on scene close to Lewes railway station following reports of a derailed train at 3.54pm today (13 August). We’re responding alongside paramedics and the fire service and will provide more information as soon as we can.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed her profound concern regarding the derailment, commending the emergency services for their rapid support to those affected. She also affirmed that the government was actively collaborating with the rail industry and local organizations to assist passengers.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service received its initial call concerning the incident at 3:55 PM. Their statement detailed, “East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service have been called to an incident near Lewes train station. Other emergencies services have also been alerted. Please avoid the area.” Updates from the service further confirmed their presence at the scene, working in conjunction with other emergency services.
Currently, paramedics, British Transport Police, Sussex Police, and firefighters are all actively involved in managing the situation. All railway lines passing through Lewes have been closed to facilitate the work of emergency crews.
Southern Railway has advised that train services are unable to operate through the affected area, anticipating significant disruption until approximately 10 PM. Passengers are strongly encouraged to postpone their travel if feasible. For those who must travel, alternative routes are recommended, and an additional hour should be factored into their journey time. Services operating between Brighton, Lewes, Eastbourne, and Seaford are expected to experience cancellations, delays, or alterations while the lines remain out of commission.
At this juncture, emergency services have not yet released confirmed details regarding potential injuries, the number of individuals on board the train, or the precise cause of the derailment. The public is urged to avoid the vicinity of Lewes railway station as the emergency response continues. Stay tuned for further breaking news updates as they become available.
