News

Fatal train crash: Report shows safety checks were missed, hoses blocked

Published

8 months ago

April 30, 2025

AN INTERIM report has found that critical safety checks were not carried out on the day of a fatal train crash in Powys last October.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) revealed four faults in the sanding system of a Transport for Wales (TfW) train involved in a head-on collision near Talerddig on October 21, 2024.

The sanding system – designed to help train wheels grip the rails during braking – had blocked hoses, preventing sand from being discharged. Two flow rate plates were also installed incorrectly, both placed upside down with one misaligned. In addition, two separate electrical faults were identified.

The westbound TfW train, travelling to Aberystwyth, was moving at around 24mph when it collided with an eastbound service travelling at 6mph. The impact killed passenger David Tudor Evans, 66, and seriously injured four others, including the train guard and the driver of the other train. A further 23 people suffered minor injuries.

Both trains were two-carriage class 158 units. The RAIB report says the westbound train should have stopped in a passing loop on the single-track Cambrian line to allow the eastbound train to pass. Data shows the driver applied the brakes as the train neared the loop, but the wheels began to slide. An emergency brake was activated but failed to prevent the train from sliding 900 metres downhill into the oncoming train.

Investigators found that the blocked sanding hoses were clogged with leaves and debris. Although a basic check had been carried out the day before, which indicated the hoses were clear at that time, the driver was unable to inspect the underside of the train as it was parked alongside a platform.

Network Rail confirmed that a railhead treatment train, used to tackle leaf build-up on tracks, had passed along the line and loop the night before the crash.

The RAIB says its investigation will continue to examine the sanding system, the extent of low adhesion on the tracks, and the maintenance procedures in place.

In a joint statement, Transport for Wales and Network Rail said:
“Safety is always our main priority for our customers and colleagues, and we’ll continue to work together with investigators to fully understand what happened and await the full conclusion and recommendations of the investigation.”

Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

7 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

7 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

7 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.