A serious incident unfolded on Thursday morning when a Transport for Wales train traveling from Manchester to Cardiff struck a tractor-trailer at a level crossing near Leominster, Herefordshire. The collision occurred at approximately 10:40 a.m., prompting an immediate emergency response.
The train, operating on the Marches line, was fortunately not derailed, but two passengers sustained minor injuries. British Transport Police (BTP) reported that a 32-year-old man from Bromyard, Herefordshire, was arrested on suspicion of endangering safety on the railway.
Emergency services, including West Midlands Ambulance Service, West Mercia Police, and local fire crews, rushed to the scene. One man involved in the incident required airlifting to Hereford County Hospital, while a woman was transported by road. Fifteen additional passengers were assessed on site and released without the need for further medical treatment. Notably, no occupants of the tractor-trailer needed medical attention.
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The collision caused significant disruption: all direct train services between Manchester and Cardiff were canceled, and the rail lines between Hereford and Craven Arms were blocked. National Rail anticipates that normal service will resume by Friday, May 23. In the interim, ticket acceptance has been extended to multiple train operators, including Northern, Avanti, GWR, and CrossCountry, with replacement road transport arranged.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has deployed inspectors to the site to conduct a preliminary examination. A full investigation decision will be made in the coming days based on gathered evidence.
Local Ward Councillor Dan Hurcomb expressed relief that there were no serious injuries but emphasized the potential severity of the incident. He called for a comprehensive investigation to understand the causes and prevent future occurrences.