PEOPLE living in Audenshaw were left close to catastrophe as a train derailed near to homes.
A freight locomotive, which was carrying aggregates, came off the tracks on the line between Denton and Ashton Moss on the morning of Friday, September 6.
And a buckled wagon, believed to be one of 10 affected, could be seen sitting at a 45-degree angle yards from properties on both Sidmouth Street and Thornley Rise.
Residents told of hearing a ‘loud screeching sound’ at about 11.30am as the train derailed.
All the emergency services rushed to the scene, along with Network Rail and GB Railfreight – which was operating the service – representatives.
British Transport Police officers flew drones over the scene, which continued towards Ashton Moss, with the end of the train – which was heading to Manchester – sitting close to homes on High Ash Grove.
And a cordon was put in place, preventing people from walking under the bridge over a pedestrianised part of Sidmouth Street.
Those living at the top end, close to the Memorial Gardens, and on Thornley Rise had to get police permission to access and exit their property.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported in the incident, with a British Transport Police spokesperson telling The Correspondent: “British Transport Police were called to the line near in Audenshaw just after 11.40am today (September 6) following reports of a freight train derailment.
“Thankfully, no-one was injured. Officers remain at the scene and the line remains closed while the scene is being cleared and investigated.
“Enquiries are ongoing.”
Greater Manchester Police said one person received minor injuries in a statement, which read: “Officers are assisting following reports of a freight train derailing in Sidmouth Street, Audenshaw.
“One person has received minor injuries and officers are on scene to support emergency service colleagues.”
And Network Rail confirmed: “At about 11:30am today, we received a report that a freight train had come off the tracks at low speed near Denton.
“The train was carrying aggregates and was headed for Manchester Hope Street.
“There were no injuries and the driver is safe.
“This is a freight only line and the area will remain blocked until the train can be moved.
“Freight trains that are scheduled to be using this route will be diverted.
“As a precaution, Sidmouth Street is closed for safety reasons.”