Major incident declared following train derailment – Sussex

Officers are continuing to respond to a train derailment close to Lewes station in Sussex, following reports around 3.44pm today (13 August).

A major incident has been declared after three carriages of the train derailed onto their side, leaving a number of people trapped. They have now been safely evacuated. 

At this time we believe that two people have sustained serious injuries and a further nine patients have sustained less serious injuries. Patients have been assessed and treated at the scene, with some transported to local hospitals.

Officers are continuing to respond at the scene alongside colleagues from Sussex Police and the local Fire and Rescue and Ambulance Services.

The incident involved a Southern train travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne.

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Drummond-Smith said: "We've declared a major incident and a significant emergency service response is ongoing at the scene, but all passengers on the train have now been safely evacuated from the service.

“Our thoughts are of course with everyone affected, and I’d like to reassure the public that we’re supporting the Rail Accident Investigation Branch to establish exactly what's happened. We’ll provide further information as soon as we are able".