Investigation into a derailment at Gysgfa, Gwynedd on the Ffestiniog Railway on 3 May 2008
The derailment occurred at 15:30 hrs. The 15:00 hrs train from Porthmadog to Tan y Bwlch consisted of a steam locomotive, three four wheeled carriages, a bogie carriage and a bogie van. The train was running at approximately 20 mph (32 km/h) some 5 miles from Porthmadog when the two bogie vehicles derailed.
The passengers in the bogie carriage activated the emergency brake and the train stopped. No passengers were injured, although the guard received very minor injuries. The line was closed until approximately 13:00 hrs on Sunday 4 May 2008.
On the basis of a preliminary examination there is no indication that the condition of the train or the signalling system caused the derailment.
The RAIB's investigation into the derailment is independent of any investigations by the safety authority.
The RAIB will publish a report, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of its investigation. This report will be available on the RAIB website.
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