Two people seriously injured after train with 150 on board derails

Two people have been seriously injured after a train with around 150 people on board derailed near Lewes in East Sussex.

Multiple emergency services are at the scene of the incident, which happened near Lewes railway station on Thursday afternoon and involved a Southern Rail train.

South East Coast Ambulance Service said a further nine patients sustained less serious injuries in the derailment.

“Patients have been assessed and treated at the scene, with some transported to local hospitals for further treatment and care,” a spokesperson said.

“A number of passengers who did not require hospital treatment have been taken to a local community centre, where they are being supported by partner agencies.

“This remains a complex and ongoing multi-agency response.”

Photographs circulated online show at least two carriages of a train lying on their side, with two passengers standing on top.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she is “deeply concerned” by the incident and is “working quickly with the rail industry and local partners to assist passengers”.

Published: 13/08/2026 by Radio NewsHub