Track Problem Found At Site Of Lewes Train Crash

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Investigators have found an irregularity in the railway track at the site of last week's train derailment in Lewes.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch says the issue was present before the crash, which happened on Thursday 13 August during a period of very hot and dry weather.

Three carriages of a Southern train travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne came off the tracks and ended up on their sides.

Around 30 people were injured, with 20 taken to hospital. Two people are still receiving treatment.

The train was travelling at around 65 miles per hour when it derailed, below the 70mph speed limit.

Investigators say the driver had applied the brakes as the train passed the point where it came off the rails.

The initial report also found evidence of previous track maintenance in the area, while several passengers have since reported experiencing 'rough riding' at the same location.

Investigators are now looking at how the track and embankment were inspected and maintained, as well as whether measures designed to deal with hot weather were effective.

The railway between Lewes and Haywards Heath remains closed, with a complex recovery and repair operation still to be carried out.

Network Rail and Greater Thameslink Railway say they're supporting the investigation and will consider any recommendations.

The Office of Rail and Road is also investigating whether any health and safety laws may have been breached.