British Transport Police have released a further update after a train derailed this afternoon.
A Southern Rail service travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne derailed this afternoon (August 13) just before 4pm.
At least two people were seriously injured, and a major incident was declared.
Follow our live coverage of the ongoing incident here: Live updates as trains derails near Lewes in East Sussex | The Argus
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Speaking at the scene tonight, Superintendent Dominque Iaonnou from the British Transport Police said:
"This afternoon, at around 3.45pm, we received a report of a train derailment near Lewes station in Sussex.
"A major incident was declared after three carriages of a Southern service travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne derailed.
"A number of passengers were initially trapped, but thankfully were soon safely evacuated from the train.
"At this stage, we know that 20 people are in hospital and two people have sustained serious injuries.
"Those injured were assessed and treated at the scene, with some taken to local hospitals for further treatment.
"A significant emergency service response has taken place throughout the evening, involving officers from British Transport Police alongside colleagues from Sussex Police, the fire and rescue service, and ambulance service.
"First and foremost, our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident, and I’d also like to recognise our officers and emergency service colleagues who have worked tirelessly this evening in particularly challenging temperatures.
"I’d like to reassure the public that we’ll be working closely with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch to establish exactly what happened this evening, and we’ll provide further updates when we’re able to."
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