EVIDENCE AT THE INQUIRY.

Northern Advocate, 8 September 1913, Page 5

EVIDENCE AT THE INQUIRY.

TESTIMONY BY THE TRAIN

DRIVERS

(By Telegraph-Press Assn.-Copyright)

LONDON, Sept. 6

At the inquiry into the Aisgill railway smash Nicholson, the driver of the wrecked train, gave evidence. He stated that he asked for an extra engine at Carlisle because the load was 243 tons instead of the usual 230 tons. The engine had carried 258 tons.

Candell, the driver of the second train, stated that he had used small coal for several years, and had never officially complained of lack of steam. He started to go down to Appleby, and proceeded to oil the engine two miles before reaching Mallerstang. He did not take his habitual second look at the distance signal, owing to his attention being diverted by the low state of the water in the boiler. He passed all signals without noticing the reduced speed of twenty-five miles owing to the gradient. The fireman, Fellows, just before the accident sounded the whistle and exclaimed "There is a red light!" Witiness used the brake, but too late.

Superintendent Corey gave evidence that he had complained of the smallness of the coal, and larger was supplied but on'y for a period.

The fireman of the Aberdeen express, Fellows, gave evidence that he forgot to tell Candell, the driver, that the latter had not noticed the signals. Fellows assumed responsibility for this forgetfulness to inform Candell.

Fellows admitted that he failed to watch the signals. Mr Pringle, far the Board of Trade, said he would be compelled to press Fellows to admit that the greater, responsibility rested with the driver.