A West Somerset Railway locomotive that began moving while no-one was at the controls only reached 2mph and travelled just a few feet before it was stopped. 

WSR says there was no risk of injury from the incident on Friday 4th August. It happened as preparations were underway in the Williton workshop of the Diesel and Electric Preservation Group (DEPG) for a static test of ‘Hymek’ locomotive D7018. 

Following the engine start and while the preparations for the actual test were still in progress, the locomotive started to move un-commanded.

 This movement was against the parking brakes and included riding over scotches (wheel chocks), causing some minor damage both to the locomotive and to some of DEPG’s equipment and spares. The movement was stopped by shutting down the engine. 

 Because of the incident the DEPG withdrew all Hymeks from operational activities while the cause was reviewed and additional controls developed to ensure the locomotives remained safe to use. 

 In a "Position Statement" issued by WSR it said: "Thankfully, no-one was hurt in this incident. (It) is a reportable incident to the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) and following receipt of the report, they confirmed that no further input was required from them. The Office of Rail & Road (ORR) were informed routinely." The ORR says it will not be investigating the incident.

:: This article clarifies historic articles published in August 2023 in print and online following an approach by West Somerset Railway PLC.