On 28 February 2001, one of the most tragic rail incidents in modern UK history took place near Great Heck, Selby. At 06:13, a southbound InterCity 225 passenger train struck a vehicle that had left the M62 motorway and came to rest on the track, before being hit by an oncoming freight train. Ten people lost their lives, including both train drivers and many more were injured. It remains one of the most significant rail disasters of the 21st century.
As we mark this anniversary, we remember all those who lost their lives, those who were injured and everyone affected. We also honour the professionalism, courage and compassion shown by everyone involved on that day.
Humberside Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) supported North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (NYFRS) in an over‑border capacity during the incident. On‑Call firefighters from Snaith were first on scene, being only a few miles away from the location. They were quickly joined by crews from Selby Fire Station (NYFRS), along with additional firefighters and officers from both North Yorkshire, Humberside and other neighbouring counties. Together they worked in extremely challenging conditions, managing widespread wreckage, difficult access and multiple casualties while coordinating closely with paramedics, police, rail teams and other agencies.
Lee Patterson, now Watch Manager at Snaith Fire Station (HFRS), reflected on arriving at the scene: “It was just the eerie silence. It was really, really quiet. But as soon as we started talking to people and they saw the yellow helmets, that’s when the screaming started. When we arrived we grabbed the trauma bag and went in search of casualties. We were soon joined by colleagues from North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, paramedics and other agencies.”
For those who were there that day, the memories remain deeply felt. Incidents of this scale shape not only our response but our ongoing commitment to learn, to reflect and to prepare. While our training methods, equipment and facilities have continued to evolve over the years, supported by new partnerships and improved training environments, the values demonstrated at Great Heck remain the same: teamwork, compassion and a steadfast commitment to protecting our communities.