THE loss of control of the train brakes during the operation of the ‘Lowlander’ Caledonian Sleeper service on August 1 on the approach to Edinburgh Waverley station is being investigated by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB).
Starting as the 23.36 from London Euston the previous evening, the Glasgow and Edinburgh portions divide at Carstairs into two eight-coach portions, with a fresh locomotive being provided for the portion to the Scottish capital, which was hauled by Class 92 No. 92020.
However, as the train approached Waverley the driver discovered the train’s braking performance was well below normal, with the result it failed to stop as scheduled in platform 11, continued through platform 7 (the long platform is split in two, numbered 7 and 11), and came to a stand around 650 metres beyond its intended stopping point.
One eye-witness said the train appeared from The Mound tunnel much faster than the 20mph limit. As the incident unfolded, the signaller cleared the tracks for the train, which was only brought to a stand by the operation of an emergency device by the train manager, who applied the brakes.
Read more in the September 2019 issue of The RM – on sale now!
Railway Reads
From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.Get The Railway Hub Weekly Round-up
Enter your e-mail address below and you will receive weekly rail news straight into your inbox...You can unsubscribe at any time.
About the Author
01507 529529 | NDevereux@Mortons.co.uk
- From the archive: Bredgar’s little gem - 21st May 2020
- Tragedy on the West Coast Main Line: Defining moment in level crossing use - 14th May 2020
- From the archive: Engineering – South Devon Railway style - 7th May 2020