A major fire involving the rear two tri-secton bi-level STVA automotive transporter vehicles Nos. 87-43-75-0305 and 87-43-75-0446 of the 21.53 (29/1) 6X38 Washwood Heath-Bathgate automotive train took place at Drem, south of Edinburgh at around 06.43 on 30 January 2007. The train was powered by Class 66/0 No. 66115 which was not damaged.

More than 50 firefighters in 10 appliances from North Berwick, Haddington, Musselburgh and East Linton tackled the flames. They were alerted at around 06.35, and the fire was extinguished by 10.00. The fire engulfed the last six automotive vehicles of train, on the very rear was a four-wheel oil wagon.

The burning vehicles blocked rush-hour trains on the East Coast Main Line and the North Berwick branch line, causing long delays for all passengers in the area. The ECML will remain closed for the remainder of the day while repairs are carried out. The front portion of the train involved was taken forward powered by 66115 at around mid-day, while the fire damaged vehicles, which were not derailed, were rescued from the scene and taken to Millerhill by Class 37 No. 37406 at around 13.30, after an 'on site' investigation had taken place.

All 36 Citroen cars and vans on board the rear six wagons - estimated to be worth over £300,000 - were destroyed in the blaze.

Firefighters were initially worried that a fuel tank on the rear of the train might explode, but thermal imaging showed the internal temperature had not risen to dangerous levels.

Police advised nearby residents to keep their windows and doors closed because of dense smoke billowing from the wreckage.

Network Rail told TRC that it hopes to reopen the line tomorrow (31 January), after the extent of the damage has been assessed. A spokeswoman said: "Our investigations would suggest there is not much damage to the lines, but the overhead power lines are more seriously damaged. We will be working round the clock to get the railway open again".

Right:
The rescue takes place of the damaged portion of the train, Clas 37/4 No. 37406 stands coupled to the burnt out wagons at Drem, while EWS engineers make the train safe for movement. The loaded fuel tank, with loco fuel for Millerhill is coupled on the rear. James Young

Below:
View of the burnt out STVA vehicles, the deformation of the car and rail vehicle structures shows the extensive heat generated by this fire. James Young

Bottom:
66115 awaits to work the front portion away after the fire was out. James Young