Man declared dead after 'non-suspicious' incident shut train line

A MAN has been confirmed to have died after an incident on the train line this morning (Thursday) which stopped services for a time between Brockenhurst and Poole.

British Transport Police (BTP) said officers and paramedics were called to Bournemouth station at 6.35am to reports of a casualty on the tracks. A person has since been pronounced dead.

“The incident is not being treated as suspicious,” a BTP spokesperson told the A&T. “Officers are now working to identify the person and inform their next of kin.

"A report will also be prepared for the coroner.”

People waiting for their trains reported a station announcement at Christchurch of a body on the tracks. Elsewhere others were apparently informed by signs at entrances.

Lines between Poole and Brockenhurst stations were closed for several hours and operator South Western Railway (SWR) warned commuters that delays are expected until at least 2pm.

“We have received reports that police are dealing with an incident between Poole and Brockenhurst. Our response teams are working with the emergency services to assist with the incident,” SWR said.

“In order to allow emergency services access to the railway, all power to the track will need to be switched off in the affected area.

“Until further notice, all lines between Poole and Brockenhurst will be closed.”

It said SWR tickets will be accepted on Cross Country services between Bournemouth and Basingstoke, Yellow Buses and Bournemouth Transport in Bournemouth.

SWR added: “We are in the process of arranging road replacement transport between Southampton Central and Poole.

“We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause to your journey.”

Commuters are urged to speak to SWR staff or use the help points at stations for advice or visit SWR’s website www.southwesternrailway.com.