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Thursday 13 Aug 2026

Rail industry statement on Lewes derailment incident

Region & Route:

Southern

| National

| Southern: Sussex

A statement from Network Rail and Southern Rail.

Network Rail and Southern Rail have issued a joint response following a train derailment in the Lewes area of East Sussex, which took place at approximately 3.55pm on Thursday 13 August.

Both organisations worked closely with the emergency services, local and central government, and fellow industry partners, to act quickly – ensuring the safety and well-being of those involved was prioritised.

Lucy McAuliffe, Network Rail's Sussex Route Director said: "Firstly I am shocked and saddened by what's happened today. My immediate thoughts and that of our teams are with the injured, their family and friends and with all those who have been caught up and affected by this incident.

"Our teams are working closely with industry partners, response teams and the emergency services to ensure everyone receives the care and support they need. That is our absolute priority right now.

"The railway between Lewes and Haywards Heath is closed, and is likely to remain closed while the emergency response continues and specialist teams carry out the complex task of assessing damage to the train and infrastructure.

"I understand that people will have lots of questions about what has happened today. I’d like to reassure everyone that we are working closely with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch, who are on site to establish exactly what's happened. At the moment, it would be inappropriate to comment as to the cause of this incident, but more information will be provided as soon as we can.

"I'd like to thank the emergency services and the wider railway family for their professionalism and swift response today.

"This is an evolving and complex situation. We will provide updates as soon as we have a clearer understanding of the recovery work required and when the railway can safely reopen. In the meantime, customers should check with their train operator for the latest travel advice before they travel.

"I can only apologise to those of you who have been impacted by this incident, but I must thank the local community and the response teams for everything that they have done to support the response to this situation."

John Whitehurst, CEO of GTR which operates Southern Rail, added: “I am deeply saddened by what has happened today and my thoughts are with everyone who has been affected, especially those who have been injured, along with their families, friends and loved ones.

“Our absolute priority is the welfare of our passengers and colleagues. We are working closely with the emergency services, Network Rail and wider industry partners to ensure those involved receive the care, support and assistance they need.

“I would like to thank the emergency services, our staff and colleagues across the railway for the professionalism, dedication and swift response they have shown in what are extremely challenging circumstances.  A full investigation is now under way.  We are working closely with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch and other authorities to establish the facts, and we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to support this.

“I also recognise the impact this incident is having on customers and local communities. Our teams will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available and as the recovery effort progresses. Right now, our focus remains on supporting those affected and assisting the emergency response."

Services are being disrupted as a result of the incident. Trains are unable to run through the area and major disruption is expected to continue until further notice. Passengers are advised to check before they travel at www.southernrailway.com.

For media enquiries on the incident, please call 0203 750 2031.