Train services were suspended and emergency services rushed to the scene last night following reports of a person on the tracks at Canterbury West railway station — but police have now confirmed the incident was a “near miss.”
British Transport Police and paramedics were called to the station shortly after 7pm on Thursday evening, amid fears that someone had been struck by a train.
Rail operator Southeastern immediately suspended services between Canterbury West and Ramsgate, causing significant delays for commuters and evening travellers.
However, after a full search of the area, transport police confirmed that no one had been injured in the incident.
A spokesperson for British Transport Police said:
“Officers were called to the line near Canterbury West railway station shortly after 7pm yesterday following reports of a possible casualty on the tracks. Officers conducted a full area search and thankfully confirmed this to be a near miss.”
Train services gradually resumed later in the evening, though many passengers experienced lengthy delays and cancellations during the disruption.
Southeastern has since issued an apology to passengers affected and thanked emergency services for their swift response.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, but no further investigation has been announced at this stage.
