The town’s MP, Marcus Jones, has thrown his weight behind an idea raised with him by a constituent – to have a fitting memorial like a plaque installed to remember those who lost their lives in the 1975 train crash at Nuneaton train station.
Last week, June 6th, saw the 40th anniversary of the rail crash pass, in which six people sadly lost their lives when the London Euston to Glasgow Sleeper train derailed just outside Nuneaton station.
It is thought that this terrible accident led to the development of significant safety measures, such as audible signals for drivers, which were later adopted throughout the country’s entire railway system.
Marcus has also received contact from local history group Nuneaton Memories, who have expressed an interest in organising a fitting memorial. He has confirmed to the group that he will give them his full support. The group have already begun fundraising and now have the support of the town’s MP.
Commenting, Marcus said: “The 40th anniversary was a potent reminder of the tragic event that occurred here in Nuneaton back in 1975 when six people were killed and many more injured. This has triggered a suggestion from a member of the public that a memorial should be erected to remember those who died and to pay tribute to the emergency services and medical staff who no doubt saved many lives.
“I am keen on exploring this idea and to give it my support – and I’ve written to Network Rail and the Transport Secretary to ask what can be done. I am grateful to the constituent for raising this issue with me, which I think will attract wide support from local people.”