Rail minister visits Bedford to thank first responders, rail staff and volunteers

Ambulances, fire engines and emergency service personnel lined up along a road near to where the train collision occurred on 19 June 2026. Image: RRT
More than 20 ambulances, six air ambulances and over 70 firefighters and officers were involved in the emergency response to Friday’s (19 June 2026) train collision near Elstow. Image: RRT

Rail Minister Lord Hendy today visited Bedford (Thursday) to personally thank emergency responders and rail staff following the tragic rail incident last month.

The minister met with representatives from the emergency services and partner agencies at the Borough Hall.

The visit recognised the efforts of those who worked in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy on 19 June, as well as members of the local community.

Read: Faulty safety system triggered fatal Bedford rail crash

Bedford MP Mohammad Yasin (Labour) accompanied the minister during the visit to express his own gratitude.

(l-r) EMR trainee train driver David, who was on the 3.50pm service from Nottingham to London St Pancras, involved in the train collision just south of Bedford on 19 June and Mohammad Yasin MP. Image: The office of Mohammad Yasin MP.
(l-r) EMR trainee train driver David, who was on the 3.50pm service from Nottingham to London St Pancras, involved in the train collision just south of Bedford on 19 June and Mohammad Yasin MP. Image: The office of Mohammad Yasin MP.

Yasin said: “Their professionalism, courage and compassion during an incredibly difficult time made a huge difference to those affected.”

He noted that many organisations, volunteers, and local people came together to support the community when it was needed most.

Read: Train driver killed in Bedford rail collision named as Shaun Burton

“Bedford has shown remarkable resilience and unity over the past two weeks,” Yasin added.

The MP also praised the dedication of train drivers, emergency services, and rail staff who work to keep the public safe.

Read: Transport Secretary thanks rail staff and first responders after Bedford train collision

(l-r) Mohammad Yasin MP and Rail Minister Lord Hendy. Image: The office of Mohammad Yasin MP.
(l-r) Mohammad Yasin MP and Rail Minister Lord Hendy. Image: The office of Mohammad Yasin MP.

“My sincere thanks go to each and every person who puts the wellbeing of others before their own every time they come to work. Their dedication, professionalism and selflessness deserve to be recognised.

“It was wonderful to see Lord Hendy, whose passion for our railways is so evident, take the time to thank those whose work carries such enormous responsibility.

“From train drivers to our emergency services and rail staff, these are people who do their best to keep us safe.

“We should never underestimate the responsibility they carry or the fact that, in our greatest moments of need, they are the ones who come running to help.

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