Hello

Following the derailment near Lewes yesterday, my thoughts remain with everyone impacted by the incident, especially the two people who have sustained serious injuries and the many others who were hurt. I know how deeply unsettling this must have been for those affected, their families and the wider community.

For many, the shock of what happened will take time to process and I encourage anyone who needs emotional or practical support to come forward.

My office will continue working closely with the police and local partners - including our commissioned victims’ service providers - to ensure people get the help they need.

I want to thank our emergency services, council teams and volunteers for their tireless work throughout the night in what has been a complex and challenging multi agency response. I also want to recognise the emotional and physical impact on the emergency personnel who responded so professionally in very difficult circumstances - their wellbeing matters too.

Thank you also to everyone running the Landport rest centre - your care for those affected has been invaluable and is greatly appreciated.

Specialist investigators are now working to understand exactly what happened. Understandably, people will have questions but we must allow the relevant authorities the time and space they need to complete their enquiries and investigations.

Please continue to follow official updates and advice from our emergency services, rail networks and local councils.

Sussex has always shown remarkable resilience during emergencies and I know the community will continue to support one another in the days ahead.

Keeping Sussex Safe in the Summer

This week, like many of you, I was saddened to see the devastating wildfire in Hampshire's New Forest, where hundreds of acres of precious heathland have been damaged after a vehicle fire spread rapidly through the dry landscape. It is a stark reminder of just how vulnerable our countryside becomes during periods of prolonged hot and dry weather.

Sussex is blessed with beautiful heathland, woodland and open spaces facing these risks. A thoughtlessly discarded cigarette, disposable barbecue, campfire or even a vehicle parked on dry grass can be enough to start a fire. Our local fire and rescue services are urging residents and visitors to take extra care, avoid using disposable barbecues in open spaces, dispose of litter responsibly and report any signs of fire immediately by calling 999.

The hot weather can also affect our health, particularly for older people, young children and those with existing medical conditions. NHS Surrey and Sussex is reminding people to stay hydrated, keep homes cool, avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day and check in on vulnerable neighbours, friends and relatives.

A little extra caution can make a big difference. By looking after ourselves and our environment, we can all help Sussex stay safe during this spell of very hot weather.

Katy Bourne OBE
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner