BBC ON THIS DAY | 23 | 1955: Express train crashes killing 14

1955: Express train crashes killing 14

Fourteen people were killed and dozens injured when an express train travelling from York to Bristol derailed and overturned at Sutton Coldfield station.

The accident happened at approximately 1615 GMT today.

The train, which was carrying about 300 passengers, had been diverted via Sutton Coldfield from its usual route through Tamworth because of essential maintenance to tracks.

It is understood seven bodies, including those of the two drivers, are still trapped inside the wreckage.

A spokesperson for British Railways said nine out of 10 carriages were derailed as the train passed through Sutton Coldfield station.

He said the cause of the accident was not yet known but was being investigated.

Suddenly there was a terrific rending noise and we were all thrown in a heap
Mr W Forrest, passenger
One passenger, Mr W Forrest of South Shields, who was travelling in the fifth coach on his way to Coventry, said: "The train had been swaying from side to side.

"Suddenly there was a terrific rending noise and we were all thrown in a heap.

"Some of us were thrown up and struck the roof."

Twenty fire engines attended the scene and 50 extra police officers were mobilised from Birmingham.

A total of 36 ambulances transported the injured to Sutton Coldfield hospital.

Those passengers with more serious injuries were transferred to Birmingham Accident hospital and Birmingham General hospital.

Members of the RAF also gave their assistance in the rescue efforts.

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	23 January



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