Root ball caused train derailing

The train was carrying more than 400 passengers

A root ball led to a wall collapse which caused a Surrey train derailing in January 2007, a report has found

More than 400 passengers were led to safety along the tracks after the slip in the line near Hooley caused their train to be derailed on January 13.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) found timber beams from a wall had been displaced by a six-tonne root ball falling from the cutting side.

The report called for better management of earthworks and vegetation.

'Jumped the rail'

It has also made recommendation to take into account the risk from root balls, two specific measures relating to the Hooley cutting, and guidance with regards to accessing railways and getting people off trains.

The 1059 GMT Southern service from Bognor Regis to London Victoria was stuck between Merstham and Coulsdon South, to the north of Redhill after the accident.

The front carriage remained upright although its wheels "jumped the rail".

Three ambulances were sent to the scene, but none of the 413 passengers on board required treatment.

They were guided towards an exit point from the tracks, where a bus was waiting to take them to Purley station.