STORY
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has opened an investigation into a dangerous occurrence at Todmorden in West Yorkshire after an out-of-service Northern train made an uncontrolled movement towards Todmorden Viaduct Junction. The incident happened at around 22:28 on 7 May 2026 and was announced by the RAIB on 19 June 2026.
The RAIB said the driver of the out-of-service train had been given permission by the signaller to move closer to a signal on Todmorden West Curve. However, the driver was not aware that the train was already standing with its driving cab beyond that signal, resulting in an uncontrolled movement towards the junction. The driver realised what had happened and brought the train to a stop close to the junction.
Around 12 seconds later, the 21:57 Manchester Victoria to Leeds passenger service, also operated by Northern, passed through the junction at about 45mph after leaving Todmorden station. The RAIB said there were no injuries or damage, but its investigation will examine the sequence of events, signalling systems, staff training and competence, revised working arrangements and any underlying management factors.