Rail link security warning

Eurostar trains can travel at 186mph along the new high-speed link

A former police officer has warned security is so lapse along the newly-opened high-speed Channel Tunnel rail link track that a major incident could occur at any time.

The claim comes just two weeks after a stolen car almost landed on the track near Gravesend.

Retired police officer Kevin Newman was a security manager during the building of the rail link.

He said the incident when a car was pushed through a seven feet high metal security gate was a "mirror image" of something he had feared during the construction phase.

Investigation under way

Another incident could have "massive tragic consequences" and perhaps even derail a Eurostar, he said.

Network Rail said it was investigating Mr Newman's comments and appropriate action would be taken if required.

In a statement, Eurostar said the track was highly sensitive and if anything was thrown on to it the trains would stop automatically.

It added that the trains themselves were built to the highest safety standards.

The track is part of the first section of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link that runs from Folkestone to Fawkham Junction.

Eurostar trains are capable of travelling at 186mph along the link.