A memorial plaque has been unveiled at Hull Paragon station to honour the victims of the city’s worst rail disaster, driven by the efforts of historian and Bridlington Echo History writer Richard M. Jones.
The ceremony, held today (February 14), marked the 98th anniversary of the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 12 people.
Richard explained: “On 14 February, 1925 a train from Withernsea to Hull was approaching Hull Paragon Station at the same time a second train was departing Hull and heading to Scarborough. A mistake by the signalmen in a nearby box led to both trains colliding head on at the point where today is outside Hull Royal Infirmary. The collision at 10mph killed twelve people, all of whom were on the Withernsea train, when the wooden carriages telescoped into the solid mass of the engine.
Amongst those involved were two Bridlington residents.
“The driver of the Scarborough bound train was Bridlington man Samuel Atkinson who was working closely with fireman Charles Wilkinson, also from the town.
“Both men were injured but they did survive. The crash disrupted train services from Bridlington for several days causing delays and only allowing services as far as Beverley for a short period of time.”
The disaster resulted in devastating loss of life, leading Richard to campaign for a new memorial after previous plaques were either stolen or removed for infrastructure development at Hull Royal Infirmary.
With the support of TransPennine Express, Richard successfully campaigned for the placement of a new plaque at the station.
The unveiling saw a gathering of representatives from TransPennine Express, Hull City Council, and relatives of the victims, who all observed a minute’s silence at 9:10 AM—the moment of the tragic collision.
Richard said: “There has been no way to remember the rail crash victims, and it was very much in danger of being a forgotten aspect of Hull history.
“Now, thanks to TransPennine Express, we have a dedicated space inside the station to honor those we lost.” The plaque is situated near the Larkin statue, ensuring that the memory of the victims will remain tangible for future generations.”
For further information please contact Richard on shipwreckdata@yahoo.co.uk or via his Facebook page www.facebook.com/shipwreck.data
