Driver spotted track 'kink' before Wickford derailment
On-board CCTV confirmed track misalignment as a passenger train travelling at 77 mph derailed near Wickford station.
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The driver of a Greater Anglia passenger train that derailed near Wickford station on 14 August reported observing a "kink" in the track shortly before the incident. On-board CCTV footage has since confirmed a misalignment of the track at the same location and time as the driver's observation. These details have emerged in preliminary findings published today, 28 August, by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (Raib).
The derailment occurred around 2.1 miles south-east of Wickford station as the train travelled between Southend Victoria and London Liverpool Street. The train, composed of two five-vehicle electric multiple units, was travelling at approximately 77 mph when the rearmost vehicle derailed. This vehicle's wheels subsequently ran on the track bed for about 1.5 miles. The train remained upright throughout the incident, and no injuries were reported among the estimated 62 people on board.
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Record heat causes ground instability, leading to slower train speeds and timetable changes for c2c and Greater Anglia.
Driver's report and CCTV evidence
The driver's report described the track defect as causing the driving cab to rock as the train passed over it. Forward-facing CCTV footage recovered from the train shows the track misalignment at the point where the derailment occurred. At the time the driver observed the track condition, he was in the process of reporting it to the signaller. He then received an emergency call from a train travelling in the opposite direction and applied the train's brakes.
The incident caused damage to the involved train, while a train travelling in the opposite direction sustained minor damage from ballast. Significant damage was also reported to the track, signalling equipment, and overhead electrification systems. The line between Wickford and Shenfield has since reopened.
Greater Anglia trains to resume after Wickford derailment
Services between London Liverpool Street and Southend Victoria are expected to return to normal by August 26.
Investigation and next steps
Jamie Burles, Great British Railways (GBR) Anglia managing director, stated that the company is fully supporting the Raib's investigation. He expressed regret for the disruption caused to passengers and the local community, and reiterated thanks that no one was injured. Mr Burles emphasised that safety is the highest priority and that the company is determined to understand the cause of the incident, while cooperating fully with the independent investigation.
A Department for Transport spokesperson confirmed that safety is the absolute priority across the rail network and that the industry will act on any findings from the Raib's full report. The spokesperson noted that the UK's railways are among the safest globally and highlighted ongoing investment in network renewal, maintenance, and climate resilience.
The Raib's full report, which will include any recommendations for safety improvements, will be published after the investigation is complete. Preliminary findings into a separate derailment in Lewes, Sussex, which occurred less than 24 hours before the Wickford incident, were published by the Raib on 19 August.
Questions this report answers
+What happened during the Wickford train derailment?
A Greater Anglia passenger train derailed near Wickford station on 14 August. The driver reported seeing a "kink" in the track, which CCTV confirmed as a misalignment. The train was travelling at about 77 mph when the rear vehicle derailed, running on the track bed for 1.5 miles.
+Were there any injuries in the Wickford derailment?
No injuries were reported among the estimated 62 passengers and crew on board the Greater Anglia train when it derailed near Wickford station. The train remained upright throughout the incident.
+What caused the Wickford train derailment?
Preliminary findings from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch indicate a track misalignment, observed by the driver as a "kink" and confirmed by on-board CCTV, as the likely cause. The train was travelling at approximately 77 mph at the time of the derailment.
+What happens next following the preliminary findings?
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch will continue its full investigation into the Wickford derailment. A final report, including any safety recommendations, will be published once the investigation is complete. The Department for Transport has stated the industry will act on these findings.
WE FILE
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