Salisbury rail track repairs underway following crash

Work is underway to repair early 1000 yards of track near Salisbury, which was damaged in last week's crash.

Last week, the train carriages were removed from the scene.

South Western Railway (SWR) driver Robin Tandy was hailed for acting 'impeccably' by rail bosses as he attempted to brake, but could not stop the train from colliding with a Great Western Railways (GWR) service.

The line has been blocked by the derailed trains since the collision in Fisherton Tunnel on Sunday (31 October).

Fourteen people were hurt when one train derailed, before another crashed into the back of it.

An initial probe by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) found the crash was most likely caused by 'wheel slide'.

Mr Tandy, a train driver with more than 50 years experience, was left with 'life-changing' injuries.

His SWR bosses confirmed earlier this week he was recovering in hospital.

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.

Cranes arrived on Thursday morning (4 November) to remove the carriages.

Investigators from the RAIB have now handed back control of the site.

Engineers say they have to replace 1456 sleepers, 3 sets of points, 1000 yards of track and 3 kilometres of cable

They say the line around Salisbury will be blocked until at least Monday 15 November.