The Bishop of Bedford has offered prayers for all those affected following a train collision in Bedford on Friday evening.
Emergency services responded to the incident, in which a train driver has died and a number of passengers were seriously injured. The collision has had a significant impact on those involved, as well as on the wider community.
The Rt Revd Richard Atkinson, Bishop of Bedford, said:
“Our prayers are with all those affected by yesterday’s train collision in Bedford, especially the family and colleagues of the driver who has died, and those who have been seriously injured. We hold in our thoughts the passengers, emergency responders, and all in the community impacted by this tragic accident.”
There will be an Act of Prayer and Reflection one week on from the train crash, on Friday, 26 June at Elstow Abbey (MK42 9XT) .
This will be a quiet opportunity for the community to come together to remember the train driver who died, to pray for those who were injured, and to hold in our thoughts all those affected. We will also give thanks for the emergency services, volunteers and all who responded with such care and professionalism. During the service there will be a period of silence at 5.15pm, marking one week since the incident.
Speaking ahead of the service of prayer and reflection, Bishop Richard shared:
“This tragedy has had a profound impact on families, railway colleagues, and our entire community. Our thoughts and deepest prayers remain with the family of Shaun Burton, those recovering from injuries, and the emergency responders who acted so selflessly. This service is a simple, quiet space for anyone who wishes to come, sit, reflect, and find support alongside others. All are welcome to stand together, taking part in whatever way feels right for them.”