OVERVIEW

On the evening of 21 October, two Transport for Wales (TfW) passenger trains collided at low speed at Llanbrynmair in Powys, Wales.

One person has tragically passed away, and a number of passengers and train crew have sustained injuries, not believed to be life-threatening and are receiving treatment.

The priority for Network Rail and TfW is supporting colleagues, customers and continuing to deliver the service as best we can whilst also, separately, supporting the investigation into understanding what has happened.

Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) and the British Transport Police (BTP) have the site of the incident under control and are in the process of gathering evidence in conjunction with the Network Rail Designated Competent Person (DCP) and TfW.

The facts we do know are that the location has a falling gradient, the line is bi-directional with a passing loop.

RAIB’s initial inspection of the track on approach to the point of collision found evidence that wheel/rail adhesion was relatively low, suggesting that the train may have entered into wheel slide when braking.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation, and it is important not to speculate on the events whilst investigations are ongoing.

This incident acts as a reminder to all operational colleagues the importance of continuing to follow the established rules and procedures in place for low adhesion conditions throughout your everyday working and thank you for your ongoing commitment to the safety of our railway.