A train has derailed on a heritage railway forcing a halt to services, its operator has confirmed.<\/p>\n
The locomotive and coach, which was not carrying passengers, came of the tracks on the Churnet Valley Railway shortly after departing Cheddleton, Staffordshire, on Saturday.<\/p>\n
In a statement posted on Facebook, Churnet Valley Railway Plc (CVR) said the train consisted of “empty coaching stock” and no injuries had been reported after the incident, at about 09:40 BST.<\/p>\n
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) confirmed to the BBC it had been notified of the derailment.<\/p>\n
CVR said it was the first time this had happened, and it was working closely with the relevant authorities, while operations to remove and re-rail the locomotive and coach were under way.<\/p>\n
“The railway has proudly operated heritage steam and diesel services since 1996 and this is the first incident of this nature in our history,” it said on Facebook.<\/p>\n
“We are committed to understanding exactly what has occurred and will continue to support all investigative efforts.”<\/p>\n
‘Inappropriate to speculate’<\/p>\n
It said the locomotive involved was new to the fleet but had undergone “extensive testing” prior to entering service.<\/p>\n
“It would be inappropriate to speculate on the cause at this stage,” CVR added.<\/p>\n
Trains were suspended throughout Saturday and remained so on Sunday, with normal service expected to resume on Wednesday.<\/p>\n
CVR apologised to anyone affected by the derailment and confirmed Foxfield Railway would offer free travel for those who have Sunday tickets.<\/p>\n
“A decision on RAIB’s course of action will be taken in the coming days,” an RAIB spokesperson said.<\/p>\n
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