Train derailment in East Sussex shuts several rail routes

A passenger train derailed in southern England near the town of Lewes in East Sussex, on a service running between Haywards Heath and Lewes. The incident occurred shortly before 4pm, prompting a swift response from multiple emergency services.

Images shared from the scene show at least two carriages lying on their side. Some passengers were seen standing on top of the toppled carriages, while others were pictured in a nearby heathland area alongside emergency workers.

According to official sources, all passengers have now left the train, and there are no reports of deaths or critical injuries. Nevertheless, the derailment forced the closure of several routes operated by Southern rail, including between Brighton and Lewes, Haywards Heath and Lewes, and Seaford/Eastbourne and Lewes.

Network Rail and Southern said in a joint statement that emergency services were on site and further updates would follow. British Transport Police confirmed it was responding alongside paramedics and fire crews.

The public has been asked to avoid the area, and rail travellers in the region have been advised to allow up to an hour of extra journey time. Southern urged passengers to delay travel until later in the day or use alternative routes.

Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said on social media she was deeply concerned by the reports and thanked emergency services for supporting those affected, adding that the government was working with the rail industry and local partners to assist passengers.

James MacCleary, the MP for Lewes, said he was aware of the concerning reports and in contact with the relevant authorities, describing it as a serious, developing incident and urging anyone needing urgent help to contact emergency services.