On 20 November 2013, a Virgin Trains Super Voyager arriving at Chester station was involved in a serious collision when it struck the buffer stop at the end of platform 1. Although the impact occurred at low speed, the event caused substantial structural damage and prompted a thorough investigation by rail safety authorities.

The service was the 10:10 am train from London Euston, operated by a Class 221 diesel-electric unit. As it approached the platform, the driver applied the brakes, but the wheels lost grip due to severely reduced rail adhesion. Contamination on the rails, including leaf residue and small amounts of lubricating oil, significantly reduced braking performance, leaving the train unable to slow sufficiently.

The train struck the buffer stop at around 5–6 mph, destroying it on impact. After the buffer collapsed, the leading vehicle continued forward and rode up over the remains of the structure, damaging a glass screen and part of the platform area immediately behind the buffer. Investigators later noted that the absence of people in this restricted zone prevented what could have been a much more serious outcome.

Approximately 100 passengers were on board at the time. Several were jolted by the sudden stop, though none suffered serious injuries. One passenger was taken to hospital as a precaution due to a pre-existing medical condition and was released later the same day. The train itself sustained notable front-end damage, and the leading bogie was derailed as it rode over the broken buffer.

The investigation concluded that very low rail adhesion was the primary cause of the collision. Although the train was equipped with an emergency sand-firing system to improve grip, the sand was applied late in the braking sequence, leaving insufficient distance to have a meaningful effect. As a result, the train continued to slide even under maximum braking.

Following the incident, safety recommendations were issued. These included upgrading sanding equipment on comparable trains so that sand is applied automatically when wheel-slide is detected and reassessing the design of buffer stops at terminal platforms to provide better energy absorption. The collision highlighted the risks posed by slippery rail conditions, particularly in autumn, and underscored the importance of continued vigilance in rail safety.

Image: RAIB