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Southeastern train driver removes fallen tree from tracks after services between Tonbridge and Sevenoaks halted

10:41, 25 August 2022

updated: 10:43, 25 August 2022

A train driver has saved the day for commuters after pulling a fallen tree from underneath a train.

Both lines between Tonbridge and Sevenoaks were blocked after a train struck a fallen tree at around 8.30am.

A train driver pulled a tree from under a train in Sevenoaks. Picture: Southeastern
A train driver pulled a tree from under a train in Sevenoaks. Picture: Southeastern

While waiting for response staff from Southeastern and Network Rail to arrive, one driver took it upon himself to clear the line and remove the debris himself.

Southeastern tweeted: "The driver of the train at Sevenoaks has been able to remove the tree from under the train, and the train will move forward to Sevenoaks where it will terminate."

Workers from both rail companies then checked the lines to make sure they were completely clear.

However, after finding more debris from the tree the driver returned to clear it for a second time.

Services were up and running again just 90 minutes later thanks to the driver's actions.

Lines between Sevenoaks, pictured, and Tonbridge railway stations were blocked. Picture: Google
Lines between Sevenoaks, pictured, and Tonbridge railway stations were blocked. Picture: Google

Southeastern added: "The debris has been cleared and all lines are open, however, trains on the London-bound line will need to run through the area at a reduced speed.

"Services will still be disrupted and altered at short notice while we work to return services to normal."

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