It’s been 35 years since the tragic Clapham rail disaster, where 35 lives were lost, and 500 others were injured in a horrific train collision in south London. Clifford Thompson, who was then a firefighter, shares his vivid memories of that fateful day.
The Day of the Disaster
On the morning of December 12, 1988, Thompson, stationed at Stratford fire station, was alerted to a major incident at Clapham. A train from Poole, Dorset, had collided with a Basingstoke train, resulting in a catastrophic crash near Clapham Junction Station. A third train also became involved, leading to extensive casualties.
The Response
Fifteen fire engines, along with rescue specialists, police, ambulance, and surgical teams, rushed to the site. Thompson, initially doubtful of being called to the scene due to the distance, was later dispatched. The scene he encountered was chaotic, with a plethora of emergency vehicles and media crews present.
The Rescue Operation
Thompson describes the scene as a massive, surreal film set. The emergency teams worked diligently amidst the wreckage. Thompson, along with other firefighters, assisted in retrieving the remaining victims, a task marked by quiet determination and respect for the deceased.
The Aftermath
The investigation into the disaster, led by Anthony Hidden QC, took over a year and concluded that faulty wiring and an incorrect signal were to blame for the tragedy. For Thompson, who had experienced various incidents in his firefighting career, the Clapham disaster stood out due to its sheer scale and impact.
Remembering the Victims
Twenty-five years later, the Clapham rail disaster remains a poignant memory in London’s history. Thompson reflects on the day with a sense of solemnity, acknowledging the significant loss of life and the brave efforts of all responders involved.
The Clapham rail disaster remains one of the most significant and tragic events in the history of British rail travel. The incident not only brought forth changes in railway safety protocols but also left an indelible mark on the lives of those who witnessed and responded to the tragedy.
