Injured Salisbury tunnel train crash driver unable to brake a railway veteran who 'acted impeccably'

The train driver who was left with life-changing injuries following the Salisbury train crash was one of the most experienced and longest serving in the country, with more than 50 years in the job. 

Crash investigators say Robin Tandy, 74, applied his brakes when he saw a red signal but slippery rails meant his train slid along the track and crashed into another service in front of him on Sunday, October 31.

South Western Railway say the driver acted in an "impeccable way in a valiant attempt to keep his passengers safe", staying at the controls throughout.

Mr Tandy is recovering in hospital after suffering life-changing injuries.

In total, 14 people were hurt in the crash.

An interim report into the crash will be published on Wednesday.

Authorities investigating the incident announced on Tuesday that 'wheel slide' is believed to be a key factor, according to the first stage of their findings.

Rail Accident Investigation Branch deputy chief inspector Andrew Hall said a South Western Railway (SWR) train had not stopped at a red signal before ploughing into the side of a Great Western Railway (GWR) service.

One of the trains was tipped onto its side by the force of the collision, which damaged signalling in the area and sparked widespread delays.

Mr Hall said initial evidence suggested the SWR driver applied the brakes as the service approached the junction and the red signal, but could not stop. 

The line is expected to remain closed until next week to allow the recovery work to be completed.

Operator South Western Railway said: "We want to pay tribute to our driver who was injured on Sunday night.

"He is a deeply respected colleague, who has over 50 years’ experience of driving on this route and an excellent professional track record.

"All our drivers are regularly assessed to the highest standards and he has fully satisfied all requirements.

"Initial findings indicate that the driver acted in an impeccable way in a valiant attempt to keep his passengers safe, staying at the controls throughout.

"We thank him for his actions and we wish him a speedy recovery as he continues to be treated in hospital."