- Train derailed near Lewes just before 4pm on Thursday, prompting a rapid emergency response.
- Several rail routes were closed after a Southern service came off the tracks near Lewes.
- Emergency services including fire, paramedics, and British Transport Police attended the scene.
- Southern Rail confirmed that services would be cancelled until at least 10pm due to the incident.
- Transport secretary Heidi Alexander expressed deep concern and gratitude to emergency services on social media.
- Major disruption is expected until 22:00, with no trains able to run through Lewes until further notice.
- Passengers are advised to allow up to 60 minutes extra for their journey due to the disruption.
A passenger train derailed near Lewes in East Sussex shortly before 4pm on Thursday, leading to a rapid emergency response from local services.1
Several rail routes have been closed, with major disruptions expected until 10pm. Southern Rail confirmed that all lines through Lewes station are affected, stating, “As a result of this, trains are currently unable to run through the area to allow the emergency services to attend the incident.”2346
The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, expressed her “deeply concerned” sentiments regarding the derailment, thanking emergency services for their efforts. In a post on X, she noted, “We are working quickly with the rail industry and local partners to assist passengers.”7
Photos circulating on social media depict four carriages on their side, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Emergency services, including the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and British Transport Police, are on-site, with police stating, “Officers are currently on scene close to Lewes railway station following reports of a derailed train at 3.54pm today.”
National Rail has advised travelers to seek alternative routes, emphasizing that “No trains can run through Lewes until further notice.” Passengers are urged to allow at least an additional 60 minutes for their journeys today.
“Southern Rail said all lines through Lewes are closed and trains cannot run, with disruption expected until 22:00. Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said she was 'deeply concerned' and 'grateful' to emergency services, while photos on social media appear to show four carriages on their side.”
The Guardian
The Times
