A FIRE on board a freight train in Wales caused an overnight evacuation of nearby homes in Llangennech, near Llanelli in Carmarthenshire.

British Transport Police said the train had been carrying ‘large quantities of diesel’, and that a number of blazing wagons had derailed. The two members of crew escaped without injury.

Residents living near the railway have now been allowed to return home, but the area remains cordoned off and people are being warned to keep clear.

An investigation has already begun.

British Transport Police Assistant Chief Constable Sean O’Callaghan said: ‘This is a significant incident. Resources from across BTP, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Dyfed-Powys Police have been deployed to the scene to mitigate damage to the surrounding area and ensure the safety of all those living nearby. 

‘The fire continues and there is still a substantial risk within its immediate vicinity, so our advice remains for people to avoid the area.

‘Our officers will be conducting initial enquiries into the incident and are in the process of securing key witness statements and CCTV. 

‘Once the fire has been extinguished, and the scene is safe to assess and investigate, we’ll be working with the Office of Rail and Road and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch to establish the exact circumstances behind the incident.’