Cows derail train in Kent

Two carriages were derailed when the train hit the cows near Chilham station while travelling from Ashford to Canterbury, Southeastern Trains said.

It is not known how many cows are involved in the incident, which caused just the front carriage to derail shortly before 9.30pm.

A TRAIN has been derailed after hitting cows that wandered onto the track.

Jonathan Calder, who is on the train, said everyone is calm and Southeastern staff and emergency services are in control. “Front coach derailed”.

Calder later confirmed he safety was off the train – which was travelling from Ashford and Ramsgate – and was “now having a cup of tea in a village hall”.

Some passengers have remained on the train, while emergency services work to make the scene safe.

The train firm said no passengers or crew have been hurt. Two carriages have been derailed but are upright and there are no reports of any injuries.

Around 70 passengers on board the Ashford to Canterbury service in Kent were evacuated following the collision, but there were no reported injuries. Fire crews are attempting to gain access to evacuate passengers.’.

A Southeastern spokesman added: “Following yesterday’s incident at Chilam, buses will replace trains between Ashford Int and Ramsgate via Canterbury West all day today”.

Southeastern said the line will be closed until further notice and there will be a bus replacement in place all day.