Family Pay Tribute to Driver Killed in Bedford Train Crash

The family of the train driver who died in Friday’s rail collision in Bedfordshire have said they are devastated by his loss.

Shaun Burton, 60, died when the East Midlands Railway train he was driving from Corby crashed into the back of another on the same line, just south of Bedford station.

One-hundred people were injured, at least nine critically.

The other train involved was travelling from Nottingham and had stopped in Market Harborough prior to the crash.

Shaun Burton

In a tribute released through British Transport Police, his family said: “We are devastated by his loss. Our thoughts are also with those affected by this incident.”

Mr Burton was driving one of the trains involved in the collision, which happened shortly after 5pm on Friday.

Dave Calfe, general secretary of the train drivers’ union Aslef, described the loss as “heartbreaking”.

He said Mr Burton had joined the railway seven years ago after previously working on buses and coaches.

“He was dedicated to the job, devoted to his colleagues and enormously popular at his depot,” Mr Calfe said.

“The railway family grieves his passing; no-one should go off to work in the morning and not come home.”

East Midlands Railway managing director Will Rogers described Mr Burton as a “well-respected colleague” and a “dedicated railway professional”.

He added: “Shaun was known for his quick wit, kind, generous and intelligent nature, and for always having a smile on his face.”

Investigations into the cause of the collision are continuing.

The scene of the crash  Pic: Peter Knapp

The rail line between Bedford and Luton remains closed, meaning all southbound East Midlands Railway services from Market Harborough are currently terminating at Bedford.

A limited replacement bus service is operating between Bedford and Hitchin, where passengers can reconnect with rail services to London.

Buses will also run between Kettering and Luton, where passengers can join Thameslink railway services into London St Pancras.

East Midlands Railway has warned passengers to only travel if necessary and says disruption is expected to continue throughout the week.