Emergency services are responding to a train derailment near Lewes railway station in Sussex after an incident on the line between Haywards Heath and Lewes. The derailment occurred at 3.54pm on 13 August, and at least two carriages have come to rest on their sides, with passengers seen standing on top of the derailed train in images shared on social media.
Passengers told to remain on trains
Southern Rail confirmed that emergency crews are attending the scene. In an update, the rail operator advised passengers on trains close to Lewes station to remain on board and await further instructions. The company stated: “A train has derailed in the area between Haywards Heath and Lewes. Emergency services are making their way to the scene and we are working out the impact this will have on our network.”
British Transport Police said: “Officers are currently on scene close to Lewes railway station following reports of a derailed train at 3.54pm today (13 August). We’re responding alongside paramedics and the fire service and will provide more information as soon as we can.”
Services suspended on multiple routes
As a result of the incident, no trains can run between Brighton and Lewes, Haywards Heath and Lewes, or Seaford/Eastbourne and Lewes. The suspension affects commuters and travellers on these key routes in Sussex, with disruption expected to continue while emergency teams work at the scene.
Transport Secretary responds
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.” The response involves multiple agencies, including paramedics and the fire service, coordinated by British Transport Police.
The derailment has raised immediate safety concerns, and passengers are advised to follow updates from Southern Rail and British Transport Police. The cause of the derailment has not yet been confirmed, and investigations are likely to follow once the emergency response is complete.
