OBSTRUCTION ON LINE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20244, 2 May 1929, Page 14

OBSTRUCTION ON LINE.

ATTEMPT TO WRECK TRAIN.

DRIVER WARNED IN TIME.

SLEEPER THROWN FROM RAILS.

[BX TELEGRAPH.—OWN CORRESPONDENT.] PALMERSTON NORTH, We<3nesday.

A daring attempt was made to derail the train known as Field's express at Longburn to-night by placing a sleeper and fish-plates across the rails within a stone's throw of the station. It is reported that only the prompt action of one of the railway staff in signalling the engine-driver with a red lamp prevented a derailment.

The train is due at Longburn from Wellington between 9.30 and 9.45 p.m. Just prior to its arrival two men were observed by the signal-box keeper standing between the tracks. Thinking they were unaware of the train's approach, he hastened to warn them of their danger. As ho drew near they went away and it was then that the railway officer observed the obstruction across the line.

The express by thi3 time was less than 100 yards off, leaving the official no time to remove the heavy sleeper. He signalled the driver, but not in time to prevent the engine striking the obstruction, although the train's pace > had been slackened considerably. The sleeper was thrown aside by the cow-catcher, without any damage being done.