Moorgate Tube crash: firefighters mark 50 years
Firefighters and TfL have joined emergency service partners and the families of survivors in marking 50 years since Moorgate Tube crash. The crash was the worst peacetime loss of life on the London Underground.
Forty-three people were killed when a train on the Northern City Line failed to stop, colliding with the buffers at the Tube station. Firefighters led emergency personnel in the rescue and recovery operation for six days. Over 1,300 firefighters, 240 police officers, 80 ambulance workers, 16 doctors, and multiple volunteers took part in the emergency response.
The crash site had been over 20 metres below ground, forcing equipment to be carried down to the platform through the station’s stairs. At times, rescue crews had to work without protective clothing to prevent heat exhaustion.
A makeshift operating theatre was established on the platform by medics from The London Hospital. It provided immediate emergency care while paramedics worked to triage those rescued from the wreckage.
Crews from Shoreditch and Dowgate fire stations joined TfL at Moor Place, where a memorial is located to those who lost their lives, for a service of remembrance. They were joined by survivors of the Moorgate Tube crash and the families of those who lost their lives.
As part of the service, the names of those who died were read aloud. This was followed by a moment of silence and reflection. Floral tributes were placed at the memorial on behalf of the London Fire Brigade, TfL, and family members.
“Today, we remember not only the forty-three people who lost their lives in this tragic incident, but also everyone who was impacted by their loss,”
Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne, London Fire Brigade, said. “Fifty years ago, the lives of so many families would be forever changed in a matter of minutes, and it’s important we never forget that. We also remember the dedication and determination of the firefighters, emergency responders and volunteers that attended the crash. For six days they carried out a complex rescue operation in difficult conditions. The response they provided is a testimony to the service we all still provide to London in an emergency.”
Image: Eirian Evans
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