The Bluebell Railway has been told to review its procedures for coupling and uncoupling trains after a shunter (member of staff) was caught between two steam locomotives when they unexpectedly moved.
The incident happened at around 3pm on Saturday 9 August 2025 during the heritage railway’s 65th anniversary mini-gala.
The locomotives, Fenchurch and Stepney, were being coupled together in preparation for their return to a nearby shed when they began to move while the shunter was standing between them.
The locomotives travelled around three metres before another member of staff, who was on the platform, stopped the movement.
The shunter was not injured but was left shaken by the incident.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch found the locomotives moved because steam pressure had built up in the cylinders of Fenchurch, causing an uncommanded movement.
Investigators said the regulator valve had not been fully closed, allowing steam into the cylinders.
The reverser was also not in a position which would have reduced the risk of the locomotive moving.
RAIB also found that Fenchurch had not been effectively immobilised because its air brake was not fully applied.
The report said actions taken by the shunter to prevent the locomotive moving were ineffective because they had not been made aware of the type of braking system fitted to it.
Investigators identified an underlying factor as the Bluebell Railway not effectively managing the risks associated with coupling air-braked rolling stock.
RAIB has made one recommendation following the incident.
It has told the Bluebell Railway to carry out a risk-based review of its arrangements for coupling and uncoupling rail vehicles.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch says the purpose of its investigations is to prevent future accidents and incidents and improve railway safety. It does not establish blame or liability and does not carry out prosecutions.
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