This sounds like pure speculation to me, but was reported in the Independent online on 28 February 2007
Track workers may have deliberately dismantled the points which caused the rail crash in Cumbria last Friday.
Staff working on the line - possibly for a private contractor - may have removed vital components as a short cut to complete the work quickly, according to industry sources.
The industry sources argued that workers may have taken the points apart in order to switch a vehicle from one track to another. Under normal circumstances the special crossover can only be operated by line-side personnel if it has been "released" by a signaller. The points are only used for engineering work and during emergencies.
The industry insider said the evidence pointed to maintenance staff taking the points apart so that they could switch a vehicle from one track to another without the involvement or authorisation of the signaller. Clearly the staff then failed to reassemble the equipment.
Wednesday 28 February 2007
Video evidence
According to the Independent online on 28 February 2007
Network Rail confirmed that video footage taken by special engineering equipment found that a critical piece of equipment, which stabilises the points, was missing from the crossover two days before the accident. The film showed that the front stretcher bar, which keeps the rails apart, was missing from the points last Wednesday.
A spokesman for the infrastructure company however said that, as a matter of routine, the video footage was not inspected until after the crash.
At least 200 trains carrying tens of thousands of passengers passed over the faulty points before the accident in which a Virgin Pendolino train left the track, killing an elderly woman and seriously injuring five other people.
Similar news also reported in the Daily Record on 28 February 2007, but with a slightly different spin.
RAIL chiefs had video evidence that could have prevented the Cumbria death crash - but failed to look at it.
Footage recorded two days before Friday's accident could have revealed the fatal flaws in the set of points where the Virgin express train derailed.
But Network Rail admitted last night that nobody viewed the footage until after the accident at Grayrigg in which one person died and 22 were hurt.
It has emerged the film, taken by a hi-tech safety inspection train, showed one of four crucial "stretcher bars" was missing.
It also picked up the fact that bolts were missing from two of the remaining bars, which play a critical part in keeping the rails a precise distance apart.
Had the faults been spotted, a 20mph speed restriction would have been put in place right away.
A company spokesman said the £5million train, which checks the state of the track, had initially flagged up no problems.
But he added: "The train also has a video recorder which films the track. It did pick up the fact that one of the stretcher bars and some bolts were missing.
"But the video footage is not used on a day-to-day basis. It has to be run in super-slow motion to pick up any faults."
Network Rail looked at the film after the disaster then passed it to accident investigators. RMT leader Bob Crow branded the failure to look at the footage earlier "pure negligence".
Crow said it showed the "madness" of relying on technology.
Calling for an inquiry, he said: "Inspectors who walk the track are the eyes and ears of the railway."
Network Rail confirmed that video footage taken by special engineering equipment found that a critical piece of equipment, which stabilises the points, was missing from the crossover two days before the accident. The film showed that the front stretcher bar, which keeps the rails apart, was missing from the points last Wednesday.
A spokesman for the infrastructure company however said that, as a matter of routine, the video footage was not inspected until after the crash.
At least 200 trains carrying tens of thousands of passengers passed over the faulty points before the accident in which a Virgin Pendolino train left the track, killing an elderly woman and seriously injuring five other people.
Similar news also reported in the Daily Record on 28 February 2007, but with a slightly different spin.
RAIL chiefs had video evidence that could have prevented the Cumbria death crash - but failed to look at it.
Footage recorded two days before Friday's accident could have revealed the fatal flaws in the set of points where the Virgin express train derailed.
But Network Rail admitted last night that nobody viewed the footage until after the accident at Grayrigg in which one person died and 22 were hurt.
It has emerged the film, taken by a hi-tech safety inspection train, showed one of four crucial "stretcher bars" was missing.
It also picked up the fact that bolts were missing from two of the remaining bars, which play a critical part in keeping the rails a precise distance apart.
Had the faults been spotted, a 20mph speed restriction would have been put in place right away.
A company spokesman said the £5million train, which checks the state of the track, had initially flagged up no problems.
But he added: "The train also has a video recorder which films the track. It did pick up the fact that one of the stretcher bars and some bolts were missing.
"But the video footage is not used on a day-to-day basis. It has to be run in super-slow motion to pick up any faults."
Network Rail looked at the film after the disaster then passed it to accident investigators. RMT leader Bob Crow branded the failure to look at the footage earlier "pure negligence".
Crow said it showed the "madness" of relying on technology.
Calling for an inquiry, he said: "Inspectors who walk the track are the eyes and ears of the railway."
Tuesday 27 February 2007
Network Rail press release - after RAIB initial report
Responding to the initial finding of the Rail Accident Investigation Branch, Chief Executive, John Armitt said: ”Network Rail is devastated to conclude that the condition of the set of points at Grayrigg caused this terrible accident. We accept the RAIB report in all respects. We would like to apologise to all the people affected by the failure of the infrastructure.
“We now need to understand how the points came to be in this condition – and we will leave no stone unturned in our search for the facts behind this derailment. We will continue to co-operate fully with the investigators as they work towards more detailed conclusions.
“When more detailed findings are available, we will consider them carefully, and learn any lessons that need to be learned. We will also, at that time, consider any action that might need to be taken as a result.
“Passengers should be reassured that we have carried out extensive checks of similar points across the rail network. Over the weekend, more than 700 special inspections took place, and nothing out of the ordinary was found.
“Our key priority is to run a safe railway. Despite this terrible tragedy, it is worth remembering that the railway is safer than it has ever been before, and remains the safest form of transport in the UK .
“We again extend our sympathies to the family and friends of Margaret Masson, who died as a result of the incident, and to those who were injured and shaken. We would also like, again, to thank the emergency services who worked heroically on that difficult evening.”
“We now need to understand how the points came to be in this condition – and we will leave no stone unturned in our search for the facts behind this derailment. We will continue to co-operate fully with the investigators as they work towards more detailed conclusions.
“When more detailed findings are available, we will consider them carefully, and learn any lessons that need to be learned. We will also, at that time, consider any action that might need to be taken as a result.
“Passengers should be reassured that we have carried out extensive checks of similar points across the rail network. Over the weekend, more than 700 special inspections took place, and nothing out of the ordinary was found.
“Our key priority is to run a safe railway. Despite this terrible tragedy, it is worth remembering that the railway is safer than it has ever been before, and remains the safest form of transport in the UK .
“We again extend our sympathies to the family and friends of Margaret Masson, who died as a result of the incident, and to those who were injured and shaken. We would also like, again, to thank the emergency services who worked heroically on that difficult evening.”
Monday 26 February 2007
Initial report from investigators
Excerpts from the report from RAIB issued 26 February 2007
3. The current focus of the RAIB’s investigation relates to the condition of the Lambrigg 2B points at the site of the derailment. Indications are that these points were the immediate cause of the derailment. No evidence has been found to date that indicates the driving of train, the condition of train or the signalling control system contributed to the accident.
12. The line speed in the area of the derailment is 95mph and the plain line track consists of continuously welded rail laid on concrete sleepers. Lambrigg crossover consists of 113lb vertical rail, and it was laid in 1986. It is of a design commonly installed between the 1970s and early 2000s.
13. At the time of this report, the RAIB has not been able to locate evidence of the last use of the Lambrigg 2B points.
14. Network Rail report there are no outstanding faults logged for the points at Lambrigg on Network Rail’s fault management system – the record system intowhich inspection staff enter information. The RAIB have yet to examine the related records.
27. Investigation of the lock and stretcher bars in the facing points at Lambrigg crossover showed that one of three stretcher bar was missing, and bolts that secured the lock bar and another stretcher bar were not in place – some of these bolts and the associated nuts and washers were found in the ballast, but others were not. However, the RAIB search of the area has not been completed. There is no evidence that the bolts had been wrenched free. Two of the stretcher bars were fractured; in one case the nature of the fracture surface indicates that it may have been consequential to the derailment. In the other case, the fracture surface indicates that it may have predated the derailment. The latter will be confirmed by further analysis.
There was therefore no complete stretcher bar in place between the switch rails immediately before the derailment. The left hand switch rail was free to move across close to the left hand stock rail whilst the right hand switch rail remained, correctly, against the right hand stock rail.
36. The RAIB has carried out a preliminary review of the recent maintenance of the points at Lambrigg based upon documents provided by Network Rail.
37. This review indicates that all recently scheduled tests of the points took place on the Network Rail scheduled dates. The RAIB will further review when visual inspections were carried out. There is evidence that the last scheduled visual inspection on Sunday 18 February did not take place. The RAIB will carry out further investigation into the content of these tests and inspections.
38. Network Rail’s New Measurement Train ran over the site on Wednesday 21 February. This train records the geometry of the track and also takes a video record of the track. The RAIB is currently in the process of reviewing these records.
Text from BBC website 26 February 2007
Investigators have found one of three stretcher bars was not in position, one had nuts and bolts missing and two were fractured.
The bars join the moving rails, keeping them a set distance apart.
One of the stretcher bars was possibly fractured before Friday night's West Coast Main Line crash and one possibly after, the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) said in its report.
It also said there was no evidence the bolts had been "wrenched free" and indications were that the points "were the immediate cause of the derailment".
Network Rail chief executive John Armitt said his organisation was "devastated" by the report and he offered an "unreserved apology".
3. The current focus of the RAIB’s investigation relates to the condition of the Lambrigg 2B points at the site of the derailment. Indications are that these points were the immediate cause of the derailment. No evidence has been found to date that indicates the driving of train, the condition of train or the signalling control system contributed to the accident.
12. The line speed in the area of the derailment is 95mph and the plain line track consists of continuously welded rail laid on concrete sleepers. Lambrigg crossover consists of 113lb vertical rail, and it was laid in 1986. It is of a design commonly installed between the 1970s and early 2000s.
13. At the time of this report, the RAIB has not been able to locate evidence of the last use of the Lambrigg 2B points.
14. Network Rail report there are no outstanding faults logged for the points at Lambrigg on Network Rail’s fault management system – the record system intowhich inspection staff enter information. The RAIB have yet to examine the related records.
27. Investigation of the lock and stretcher bars in the facing points at Lambrigg crossover showed that one of three stretcher bar was missing, and bolts that secured the lock bar and another stretcher bar were not in place – some of these bolts and the associated nuts and washers were found in the ballast, but others were not. However, the RAIB search of the area has not been completed. There is no evidence that the bolts had been wrenched free. Two of the stretcher bars were fractured; in one case the nature of the fracture surface indicates that it may have been consequential to the derailment. In the other case, the fracture surface indicates that it may have predated the derailment. The latter will be confirmed by further analysis.
There was therefore no complete stretcher bar in place between the switch rails immediately before the derailment. The left hand switch rail was free to move across close to the left hand stock rail whilst the right hand switch rail remained, correctly, against the right hand stock rail.
36. The RAIB has carried out a preliminary review of the recent maintenance of the points at Lambrigg based upon documents provided by Network Rail.
37. This review indicates that all recently scheduled tests of the points took place on the Network Rail scheduled dates. The RAIB will further review when visual inspections were carried out. There is evidence that the last scheduled visual inspection on Sunday 18 February did not take place. The RAIB will carry out further investigation into the content of these tests and inspections.
38. Network Rail’s New Measurement Train ran over the site on Wednesday 21 February. This train records the geometry of the track and also takes a video record of the track. The RAIB is currently in the process of reviewing these records.
Text from BBC website 26 February 2007
Investigators have found one of three stretcher bars was not in position, one had nuts and bolts missing and two were fractured.
The bars join the moving rails, keeping them a set distance apart.
One of the stretcher bars was possibly fractured before Friday night's West Coast Main Line crash and one possibly after, the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) said in its report.
It also said there was no evidence the bolts had been "wrenched free" and indications were that the points "were the immediate cause of the derailment".
Network Rail chief executive John Armitt said his organisation was "devastated" by the report and he offered an "unreserved apology".
British Transport Police press statements
Train derailment in Cumbria 25 February
British Transport Police are this morning (Feb 25, 2007) continuing to coordinate the investigation into the derailment on Friday evening. Working in partnership with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) and Her Majesty’s Railway Inspectorate (HMRI), this is an extremely methodical and technical process that is likely to continue for a number of days. Today, detailed forensic examinations will take place on the whole scene. Access to the scene remains complicated due to the isolated location and weather conditions. Today work will begin to prepare site for heavy lifting equipment to access the scene. At this stage we can’t say exactly when that lifting equipment will be on site. Approximately 75 BTP officers remain at the scene, including senior officers, forensic teams, CID officers, and Police Community Support Officers. Road closures remain in place around the scene for the foreseeable future. BTP are working with partner agencies to minimise disruption to local communities. A Casualty Bureau has been established by Cumbria Constabulary for anyone wanting information about relatives who may have been on the train. The telephone number is 0800 056 0146 or from outside the UK 020 7158 0198. The woman who died in the derailment has been named as Margaret Masson, aged 84, from the Cardonald area of Glasgow. 11 people remain in hospital, including the train driver and two of Mrs Masson's relatives, who were also injured in the crash. Investigative work is set to continue for some days and is focussing on a set of points south of the scene of the derailment. The derailment occurred at around 20.25 hours on Friday, 23 February. The 1715 hours London Euston to Glasgow Virgin Trains service derailed on the West Coast Main Line near Bracken Hall, north of Kendal. One person died and 22 were injured. The train had nine carriages with approximately 150 passengers on board. Mrs Masson died in hospital. The train was travelling at 95 mph when it derailed and the Fire Service rescued seven people from the first carriage and one person from the second carriage. All nine carriages were derailed. The incident occurred at a remote rural location with difficult access routes. However, all agencies responded quickly and have been effectively coordinating the rescue and recovery operation. These types of major incidents are planned for and the emergency services regularly review contingency plans and take part in table top and live exercises to ensure that procedures work smoothly.
Train derailment - family statement
Margaret Masson, aged 84, from the Cardonald area of Glasgow died in the derailment in Cumbria on 23 February. The Langley family have issued the following statement: Margaret Jones (41), daughter of Margaret Langley (61) and Richard Langley (63) from Southport, and whose grandmother Margaret Masson died in the train crash, said: "We are devastated by the death of our nan and about mum and dad being so very poorly. "We are distraught but we are all here for our parents and we ask that we are left alone to cope during this difficult time." Margaret has two other sisters, Carol Langley and Maureen Langley and a brother Jimmy Langley.
British Transport Police are this morning (Feb 25, 2007) continuing to coordinate the investigation into the derailment on Friday evening. Working in partnership with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) and Her Majesty’s Railway Inspectorate (HMRI), this is an extremely methodical and technical process that is likely to continue for a number of days. Today, detailed forensic examinations will take place on the whole scene. Access to the scene remains complicated due to the isolated location and weather conditions. Today work will begin to prepare site for heavy lifting equipment to access the scene. At this stage we can’t say exactly when that lifting equipment will be on site. Approximately 75 BTP officers remain at the scene, including senior officers, forensic teams, CID officers, and Police Community Support Officers. Road closures remain in place around the scene for the foreseeable future. BTP are working with partner agencies to minimise disruption to local communities. A Casualty Bureau has been established by Cumbria Constabulary for anyone wanting information about relatives who may have been on the train. The telephone number is 0800 056 0146 or from outside the UK 020 7158 0198. The woman who died in the derailment has been named as Margaret Masson, aged 84, from the Cardonald area of Glasgow. 11 people remain in hospital, including the train driver and two of Mrs Masson's relatives, who were also injured in the crash. Investigative work is set to continue for some days and is focussing on a set of points south of the scene of the derailment. The derailment occurred at around 20.25 hours on Friday, 23 February. The 1715 hours London Euston to Glasgow Virgin Trains service derailed on the West Coast Main Line near Bracken Hall, north of Kendal. One person died and 22 were injured. The train had nine carriages with approximately 150 passengers on board. Mrs Masson died in hospital. The train was travelling at 95 mph when it derailed and the Fire Service rescued seven people from the first carriage and one person from the second carriage. All nine carriages were derailed. The incident occurred at a remote rural location with difficult access routes. However, all agencies responded quickly and have been effectively coordinating the rescue and recovery operation. These types of major incidents are planned for and the emergency services regularly review contingency plans and take part in table top and live exercises to ensure that procedures work smoothly.
Train derailment - family statement
Margaret Masson, aged 84, from the Cardonald area of Glasgow died in the derailment in Cumbria on 23 February. The Langley family have issued the following statement: Margaret Jones (41), daughter of Margaret Langley (61) and Richard Langley (63) from Southport, and whose grandmother Margaret Masson died in the train crash, said: "We are devastated by the death of our nan and about mum and dad being so very poorly. "We are distraught but we are all here for our parents and we ask that we are left alone to cope during this difficult time." Margaret has two other sisters, Carol Langley and Maureen Langley and a brother Jimmy Langley.
Network Rail press releases
News Releases: London & South East
NETWORK RAIL CONCLUDES 700 ADDITIONAL POINTS CHECKS
Sunday 25 February 2007 14:39
Network Rail has completed 700 additional precautionary visual inspections of points that were implemented following the incident in Cumbria on Friday evening.
The points checks were conducted both in the area near to the incident as well as on high-speed lines around the country, on similar sets of points to those that are at the focus of the investigation into Friday's incident. Work to conduct 700 additional checks started at day-break on Saturday and has now been concluded. Regular checks as part of ongoing maintenance regimes will continue.
Commenting on the conclusion of these additional inspections, Network Rail Chief Executive John Armitt said: "The additional checks were a precautionary measure that any responsible organisation would carry out. Passengers should be reassured that our investigation has shown nothing out of the ordinary at any location we have visited.
"Our maintenance teams will continue with the day and night job of maintenance, including the visual inspections of points on a regular basis. We are continuing to fully co-operate with the RAIB investigation into Friday’s incident, the cause of which we are determined to understand."
NETWORK RAIL CONCLUDES 700 ADDITIONAL POINTS CHECKS
Sunday 25 February 2007 14:39
Network Rail has completed 700 additional precautionary visual inspections of points that were implemented following the incident in Cumbria on Friday evening.
The points checks were conducted both in the area near to the incident as well as on high-speed lines around the country, on similar sets of points to those that are at the focus of the investigation into Friday's incident. Work to conduct 700 additional checks started at day-break on Saturday and has now been concluded. Regular checks as part of ongoing maintenance regimes will continue.
Commenting on the conclusion of these additional inspections, Network Rail Chief Executive John Armitt said: "The additional checks were a precautionary measure that any responsible organisation would carry out. Passengers should be reassured that our investigation has shown nothing out of the ordinary at any location we have visited.
"Our maintenance teams will continue with the day and night job of maintenance, including the visual inspections of points on a regular basis. We are continuing to fully co-operate with the RAIB investigation into Friday’s incident, the cause of which we are determined to understand."
Virgin Trains Press Statements
23/02/2007 A
Serious incident in Cumbria
Statement from Virgin Trains, 23 February 2007, 22:25
Virgin Trains can confirm that a serious incident took place earlier today near Lambrigg, north of Oxenholme in Cumbria.
The incident took place shortly after 20:00.
The train involved was the 17:15 from London Euston to Glasgow Central, operated by Virgin Trains.
Virgin Trains staff are currently working with the emergency services to ensure that those involved in this incident are given every assistance.
All Virgin Trains services between Preston and Carlisle have been suspended until further notice. Alternative arrangements for customers, using road vehicles, are being made. We advise passengers to ring National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 before commencing their journey.
An emergency services number for friends or relatives concerned about anybody travelling on the train will be issued as soon as possible.
Virgin Trains will keep you updated as we receive further information. Please see our website at www.virgintrains.com.
24/02/2007
Serious incident in Cumbria
24 February 2007, 02:00Statement Issue No: 2
Serious incident in CumbriaIt is with deep regret that Virgin Trains can confirm that there has been one fatality in an accident that took place shortly after 20:00 on Friday 23 February 2007 near Lambrigg, north of Oxenholme in Cumbria.The train involved was the 17:15 from London Euston to Glasgow Central, operated by Virgin Trains. The first thoughts of everyone at Virgin Trains are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives or been injured in this terrible accident. We will do whatever we can to offer assistance in the days ahead.Virgin Trains will do everything in its power to assist enquiries into finding the cause of this tragic accident and is already working closely with Network Rail and investigative authorities.The emergency services have issued the following number for friends or relatives concerned about anybody travelling on the train: 0800 056 0146 (00 44 20 7158 0198 from overseas).
24/02/2007 B
Serious incident in Cumbria - Statement No. 3 - 24 February 2007
24 February 2007, 04:35Statement Issue No: 3
Serious incident in CumbriaIt is with deep regret that Virgin Trains can confirm that there has been one fatality in an accident that took place shortly after 20:00 on Friday 23 February 2007 near Lambrigg, north of Oxenholme in Cumbria.The train involved was the 17:15 from London Euston to Glasgow Central, operated by Virgin Trains.
The first thoughts of everyone at Virgin Trains are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives or been injured in this terrible accident. We will do whatever we can to offer assistance in the days ahead.
The emergency services have issued the following number for friends or relatives concerned about anybody travelling on the train: 0800 056 0146 (00 44 20 7158 0198 from overseas).
Trains travelling towards Edinburgh and Glasgow will terminate at Lancaster while those travelling from Glasgow/Edinburgh will terminate at Lockerbie. Replacement coaches will link the two stations.
24/02/2007 C
Courageous train driver praised by Sir Richard Branson
The train driver in charge of Friday night's (23 February) 17:15 Virgin Trains' service from London Euston to Glasgow Central, which became derailed near Oxenholme, has been praised for his courage by Virgin founder, Sir Richard Branson.
"The driver did an amazing job," said Sir Richard at the site of the accident on Saturday 24 February. "He stayed in his seat for a quarter of a mile to control the train as it came off the rails, and didn't try to protect himself by running back into the coach behind. Regrettably he sustained quite serious injuries to his neck. I wish him well in making a full recovery.
"This is a very sad and horrible day, but last night the emergency services were brilliant. As a human being I'm here, and if my children had been on that train I would expect the company to come and learn from it and to show sympathy to the victims.
"The Pendolino performed brilliantly. We transport many millions of passengers and have spent a lot of money on Pendolinos. If you are going to have a massive accident, a Pendolino is the safest train to be in.
"The train itself stood up remarkably well, it's built like a tank. If this had been an old train the injuries would have been horrendous. Pendolinos have solid crumple zones and most managed to walk away.
"The train has proved itself, is formidable and strong, and the basic fabric of the train stayed intact. Damage to the carriages is negligible, the lights stayed on and the windows didn't break. As far as safety is concerned, rail is massively more safe than the car.
"I went to the hospitals this morning to talk to the doctors and I've seen some of the people who were on the train. We've been in the transportation business for 20 years and you always dread that you are going to get that kind of call.
"I was on holiday with my family in Switzerland, noticed ten messages on my phone and thought that there was something wrong. I'm always concerned for passengers and at that stage some were still trapped on the train and we didn't know how many were injured."
Serious incident in Cumbria
Statement from Virgin Trains, 23 February 2007, 22:25
Virgin Trains can confirm that a serious incident took place earlier today near Lambrigg, north of Oxenholme in Cumbria.
The incident took place shortly after 20:00.
The train involved was the 17:15 from London Euston to Glasgow Central, operated by Virgin Trains.
Virgin Trains staff are currently working with the emergency services to ensure that those involved in this incident are given every assistance.
All Virgin Trains services between Preston and Carlisle have been suspended until further notice. Alternative arrangements for customers, using road vehicles, are being made. We advise passengers to ring National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 before commencing their journey.
An emergency services number for friends or relatives concerned about anybody travelling on the train will be issued as soon as possible.
Virgin Trains will keep you updated as we receive further information. Please see our website at www.virgintrains.com.
24/02/2007
Serious incident in Cumbria
24 February 2007, 02:00Statement Issue No: 2
Serious incident in CumbriaIt is with deep regret that Virgin Trains can confirm that there has been one fatality in an accident that took place shortly after 20:00 on Friday 23 February 2007 near Lambrigg, north of Oxenholme in Cumbria.The train involved was the 17:15 from London Euston to Glasgow Central, operated by Virgin Trains. The first thoughts of everyone at Virgin Trains are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives or been injured in this terrible accident. We will do whatever we can to offer assistance in the days ahead.Virgin Trains will do everything in its power to assist enquiries into finding the cause of this tragic accident and is already working closely with Network Rail and investigative authorities.The emergency services have issued the following number for friends or relatives concerned about anybody travelling on the train: 0800 056 0146 (00 44 20 7158 0198 from overseas).
24/02/2007 B
Serious incident in Cumbria - Statement No. 3 - 24 February 2007
24 February 2007, 04:35Statement Issue No: 3
Serious incident in CumbriaIt is with deep regret that Virgin Trains can confirm that there has been one fatality in an accident that took place shortly after 20:00 on Friday 23 February 2007 near Lambrigg, north of Oxenholme in Cumbria.The train involved was the 17:15 from London Euston to Glasgow Central, operated by Virgin Trains.
The first thoughts of everyone at Virgin Trains are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives or been injured in this terrible accident. We will do whatever we can to offer assistance in the days ahead.
The emergency services have issued the following number for friends or relatives concerned about anybody travelling on the train: 0800 056 0146 (00 44 20 7158 0198 from overseas).
Trains travelling towards Edinburgh and Glasgow will terminate at Lancaster while those travelling from Glasgow/Edinburgh will terminate at Lockerbie. Replacement coaches will link the two stations.
24/02/2007 C
Courageous train driver praised by Sir Richard Branson
The train driver in charge of Friday night's (23 February) 17:15 Virgin Trains' service from London Euston to Glasgow Central, which became derailed near Oxenholme, has been praised for his courage by Virgin founder, Sir Richard Branson.
"The driver did an amazing job," said Sir Richard at the site of the accident on Saturday 24 February. "He stayed in his seat for a quarter of a mile to control the train as it came off the rails, and didn't try to protect himself by running back into the coach behind. Regrettably he sustained quite serious injuries to his neck. I wish him well in making a full recovery.
"This is a very sad and horrible day, but last night the emergency services were brilliant. As a human being I'm here, and if my children had been on that train I would expect the company to come and learn from it and to show sympathy to the victims.
"The Pendolino performed brilliantly. We transport many millions of passengers and have spent a lot of money on Pendolinos. If you are going to have a massive accident, a Pendolino is the safest train to be in.
"The train itself stood up remarkably well, it's built like a tank. If this had been an old train the injuries would have been horrendous. Pendolinos have solid crumple zones and most managed to walk away.
"The train has proved itself, is formidable and strong, and the basic fabric of the train stayed intact. Damage to the carriages is negligible, the lights stayed on and the windows didn't break. As far as safety is concerned, rail is massively more safe than the car.
"I went to the hospitals this morning to talk to the doctors and I've seen some of the people who were on the train. We've been in the transportation business for 20 years and you always dread that you are going to get that kind of call.
"I was on holiday with my family in Switzerland, noticed ten messages on my phone and thought that there was something wrong. I'm always concerned for passengers and at that stage some were still trapped on the train and we didn't know how many were injured."
Sunday 25 February 2007
The points
Everyone is making it clear that a set of points is the main focus of the initial investigation. This makes a lot of sense, although in this case the fact that they are on a straight stretch of track and used infrequently may lead you to have some doubt.
Everyone is also referring to the Potters Bar train crash, which was caused by a set of points where bolts had either worked loose or had not been installed properly. Unfortunatly the cause of this has still not been established. From a BBC documentary last year it appeared to me that the police had formed the opinion that track maintainers were at fault, and concentrated their investigation on getting the company prosecuted for manslaughter. The trouble with this was it seemed to prevent following other lines of inquiry, including the possibility that vibration caused the bolts to loosen and understanding why that should be and how it could be prevented. It will be a real shame if this latest accident could have been prevented if more could have been learnt from Potters Bar.
The following is taken from the BBC website on 26 February 2007
"The RAIB [Rail Accident Investigation Branch] has already made clear it is focusing on the set of points just before the crash site. At this location trains can switch from one of the two tracks to the other. It normally happens only when one line needs to be closed for some reason.
The investigation is examining the state of these points. Was the track itself defective? Were the points set correctly? Already some have suggested the nuts, bolts and bars that hold the tracks at the correct distance apart may have come loose. This was the cause of the Potters Bar train crash in 2002, in which seven died.
Rail bosses have insisted the network is safe. Network Rail says the points this time are of a different type, but so far it is not clear if loose parts were to blame. If there was a mechanical defect, the maintenance regime for the track will come under sharp scrutiny.
Network Rail says a monthly maintenance check of the points was carried out on 3 February. There should also have been at least one weekly visual check since then. Every 13 weeks a major maintenance check takes place, and every year points are dismantled and rebuilt to ensure they are working correctly. Track workers are being interviewed and maintenance records examined.
Other factors may have played a part. Virgin Trains has suggested the embankment down which the train slid may have become sodden in the rain and given way under the weight of the derailed carriages.
Network Rail had been hoping changes to the way it maintains the tracks might prevent a crash like this happening.
After the spate of disasters in the late 90s, the Hatfield derailment in 2000 and Potters Bar, the contracting out of daily track repairs to private companies was ended. The work came in-house.
There is evidence that the reliability and safety of trains has improved since. But if Network Rail's basic procedures are found to be at fault, the company, and the rail industry could go through another uncomfortable period of criticism.
This is from the Guardian Website on 26 February 2007
The Cumbria rail crash which killed one woman and injured scores of passengers was probably the result of a failure in track maintenance, an interim report is expected to say today.
It is believed that the Rail Accident Investigation Branch will draw attention to the fact that nuts were missing from points on a section of track where the high-speed Virgin Pendolino train derailed, killing a grandmother and seriously injuring 11 other passengers.
Industry sources told the Guardian that nuts were found lying next to the set of points on the stretch of track just before the Glasgow-bound train crashed. It emerged yesterday that the points, used to switch trains from one track to another, were only used during maintenance, raising the suspicion that the bolts had somehow been dislodged during recent engineering work on the track.
Speculation across the rail industry suggested that a tamping machine, used to bed down stones that line the rail tracks, passed through the crash area in Grayrigg on Tuesday or Wednesday of last week and may have damaged the points, though this was dismissed as rumour by Network Rail, the private company that owns the British rail infrastructure.
Railways expert Christian Wolmar said: "From what I understand, they have found these points in a similar condition to those at Potters Bar, with some missing nuts and the stretcher bar, which keeps the rails properly apart, apparently loosened."
Network Rail moved to reassure travellers yesterday. Its chief executive, John Armitt, confirmed that a precautionary check of 700 points across the country had found "nothing out of the ordinary".
Mick Cash, of the RMT union, said the crash highlighted the union's concerns about the number of workers and sub-contractors from private companies who have access to rail tracks. The RMT estimates that 92,500 people have security passes for the rail network. "There are often complaints from our guys that so many people get access to tracks that no one knows who is doing what. Network Rail knows which employees were working near the site. The big question is whether in the last three weeks work has been carried out in the vicinity and if so, who by?"
British Transport Police have found no evidence of terrorism or vandals attacking the line. The train's driver, Iain Black, was spoken to by officers after undergoing an operation on his neck. Two data recorders on the 5.15 Friday service from Euston will be analysed today.
Everyone is also referring to the Potters Bar train crash, which was caused by a set of points where bolts had either worked loose or had not been installed properly. Unfortunatly the cause of this has still not been established. From a BBC documentary last year it appeared to me that the police had formed the opinion that track maintainers were at fault, and concentrated their investigation on getting the company prosecuted for manslaughter. The trouble with this was it seemed to prevent following other lines of inquiry, including the possibility that vibration caused the bolts to loosen and understanding why that should be and how it could be prevented. It will be a real shame if this latest accident could have been prevented if more could have been learnt from Potters Bar.
The following is taken from the BBC website on 26 February 2007
"The RAIB [Rail Accident Investigation Branch] has already made clear it is focusing on the set of points just before the crash site. At this location trains can switch from one of the two tracks to the other. It normally happens only when one line needs to be closed for some reason.
The investigation is examining the state of these points. Was the track itself defective? Were the points set correctly? Already some have suggested the nuts, bolts and bars that hold the tracks at the correct distance apart may have come loose. This was the cause of the Potters Bar train crash in 2002, in which seven died.
Rail bosses have insisted the network is safe. Network Rail says the points this time are of a different type, but so far it is not clear if loose parts were to blame. If there was a mechanical defect, the maintenance regime for the track will come under sharp scrutiny.
Network Rail says a monthly maintenance check of the points was carried out on 3 February. There should also have been at least one weekly visual check since then. Every 13 weeks a major maintenance check takes place, and every year points are dismantled and rebuilt to ensure they are working correctly. Track workers are being interviewed and maintenance records examined.
Other factors may have played a part. Virgin Trains has suggested the embankment down which the train slid may have become sodden in the rain and given way under the weight of the derailed carriages.
Network Rail had been hoping changes to the way it maintains the tracks might prevent a crash like this happening.
After the spate of disasters in the late 90s, the Hatfield derailment in 2000 and Potters Bar, the contracting out of daily track repairs to private companies was ended. The work came in-house.
There is evidence that the reliability and safety of trains has improved since. But if Network Rail's basic procedures are found to be at fault, the company, and the rail industry could go through another uncomfortable period of criticism.
This is from the Guardian Website on 26 February 2007
The Cumbria rail crash which killed one woman and injured scores of passengers was probably the result of a failure in track maintenance, an interim report is expected to say today.
It is believed that the Rail Accident Investigation Branch will draw attention to the fact that nuts were missing from points on a section of track where the high-speed Virgin Pendolino train derailed, killing a grandmother and seriously injuring 11 other passengers.
Industry sources told the Guardian that nuts were found lying next to the set of points on the stretch of track just before the Glasgow-bound train crashed. It emerged yesterday that the points, used to switch trains from one track to another, were only used during maintenance, raising the suspicion that the bolts had somehow been dislodged during recent engineering work on the track.
Speculation across the rail industry suggested that a tamping machine, used to bed down stones that line the rail tracks, passed through the crash area in Grayrigg on Tuesday or Wednesday of last week and may have damaged the points, though this was dismissed as rumour by Network Rail, the private company that owns the British rail infrastructure.
Railways expert Christian Wolmar said: "From what I understand, they have found these points in a similar condition to those at Potters Bar, with some missing nuts and the stretcher bar, which keeps the rails properly apart, apparently loosened."
Network Rail moved to reassure travellers yesterday. Its chief executive, John Armitt, confirmed that a precautionary check of 700 points across the country had found "nothing out of the ordinary".
Mick Cash, of the RMT union, said the crash highlighted the union's concerns about the number of workers and sub-contractors from private companies who have access to rail tracks. The RMT estimates that 92,500 people have security passes for the rail network. "There are often complaints from our guys that so many people get access to tracks that no one knows who is doing what. Network Rail knows which employees were working near the site. The big question is whether in the last three weeks work has been carried out in the vicinity and if so, who by?"
British Transport Police have found no evidence of terrorism or vandals attacking the line. The train's driver, Iain Black, was spoken to by officers after undergoing an operation on his neck. Two data recorders on the 5.15 Friday service from Euston will be analysed today.
Saturday 24 February 2007
Early speculation of causes
Quotes from BBC website 24 February 2007
Investigators say no cause has yet been established, but police said their inquiry was focusing on a set of points which could be "significant".
The leader of the Rail Maritime and Transport Union, Bob Crow, told ITV News: "All our indications are that people on the scene are saying that it was a points failure. And I think people can dismiss the idea that it was a cow on the track or vandalism."
Quote from Reuters 24 February 2007
"A defective track caused a high-speed train accident in Cumbria which killed an elderly woman and seriously injured five other people, according to Virgin boss Richard Branson." "I've been told the line was defective," Branson, the chairman of Virgin Group, told reporters. "I've been told that it was the points that failed."
Rail accident investigator Thomas Edwards said their inquiry would concentrate on a set of points. "Having a set of points immediately prior to an accident always makes those points very suspect, and given the information we have ... that's the focus of attention," said John Armitt, the chief executive of track operator Network Rail. "There is a possibility that it has been something which has occurred which Network Rail is responsible for. I hope that's not the case, but I have to live with the reality that it could be something which has gone wrong under our watch." Police had earlier said routine maintenance work had been carried out on the track during the previous week.
Investigators say no cause has yet been established, but police said their inquiry was focusing on a set of points which could be "significant".
The leader of the Rail Maritime and Transport Union, Bob Crow, told ITV News: "All our indications are that people on the scene are saying that it was a points failure. And I think people can dismiss the idea that it was a cow on the track or vandalism."
Quote from Reuters 24 February 2007
"A defective track caused a high-speed train accident in Cumbria which killed an elderly woman and seriously injured five other people, according to Virgin boss Richard Branson." "I've been told the line was defective," Branson, the chairman of Virgin Group, told reporters. "I've been told that it was the points that failed."
Rail accident investigator Thomas Edwards said their inquiry would concentrate on a set of points. "Having a set of points immediately prior to an accident always makes those points very suspect, and given the information we have ... that's the focus of attention," said John Armitt, the chief executive of track operator Network Rail. "There is a possibility that it has been something which has occurred which Network Rail is responsible for. I hope that's not the case, but I have to live with the reality that it could be something which has gone wrong under our watch." Police had earlier said routine maintenance work had been carried out on the track during the previous week.
Eye witness reports
Quotes from BBC website 24 February 2007
One of the passengers, BBC executive Caroline Thomson, said the train "did a sort of bump". "It suddenly appeared to hit something and then lurched very, very badly from side to side in a very dramatic way."
Those living close to the site described hearing the crash. Adam Pashley, 19, said: "It was one hell of a bang but I never thought it would be a serious incident. About 15 minutes later I was looking out of my bedroom window and suddenly I started to see police and ambulance crews."
Donald Potter said: "My house is only about 120 yards from the track and I was sitting at my desk when I heard a very strange sound, it was completely unidentifiable, like nothing I have ever heard before, and lasted for about ten seconds."
One of the passengers, BBC executive Caroline Thomson, said the train "did a sort of bump". "It suddenly appeared to hit something and then lurched very, very badly from side to side in a very dramatic way."
Those living close to the site described hearing the crash. Adam Pashley, 19, said: "It was one hell of a bang but I never thought it would be a serious incident. About 15 minutes later I was looking out of my bedroom window and suddenly I started to see police and ambulance crews."
Donald Potter said: "My house is only about 120 yards from the track and I was sitting at my desk when I heard a very strange sound, it was completely unidentifiable, like nothing I have ever heard before, and lasted for about ten seconds."
Casualties
As of 09:00 on the following morning there were reports that 22 people were sent to hospital. One sadly died later and five others were seriously hurt. There were also "dozens of walking wounded."
Whilst this is very sad, from the photos it is truly remarkable that more did not die. This must in part be due to the design of modern trains.
Whilst this is very sad, from the photos it is truly remarkable that more did not die. This must in part be due to the design of modern trains.
Initial reports
23 February 2007 the Virigin train travelling from London to Glasgow derailed at approximately 20:15 at Grayrill in Cumbria. A number of carriages ended up on their side and some fell down an embankment.
I heard about this at the end of the BBC 10pm news. At that stage it was described as a derailment. It was known that some people were still trapped in the wreckage at that time.
I heard about this at the end of the BBC 10pm news. At that stage it was described as a derailment. It was known that some people were still trapped in the wreckage at that time.
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