Croydon tram crash victims remembered 10 years on

Ten years have passed since a tram derailed near the Sandilands tram stop in Croydon, killing seven people and injuring 62. The tragedy, which occurred on November 9, 2016, continues to deeply affect the families of those who lost their lives.

Marilyn Logan spoke of the enduring absence of her husband, Philip, who was travelling to work when the tram overturned. She described him as a devoted family man who would have done anything for others. The loss has left a significant void in her life, with her often instinctively reaching for his help for household tasks. Philip had reportedly questioned whether to travel that morning due to heavy rain.

The tram was travelling at speed towards a sharp bend where the limit dropped significantly, leading to its derailment. An investigation later suggested the driver may have lost awareness, possibly due to microsleeping. Inquests returned verdicts of accidental death for all seven victims.

Mark Smith's mother, Jean, also shared her ongoing sorrow, particularly as significant family milestones pass without her son. She recalled her last conversation with Mark, a window fitter, before he boarded the tram to travel to a job in central London. She remembered him as a loving and supportive person, whose absence is still keenly felt by his friends and family. His son, Lucas, now 11, is growing up without his father and is being shielded from the full impact of the event, though he can hear his father's voice through Mark's carp fishing videos.

Support and Remembrance

Alfred Dorris, the tram driver, was cleared of all charges at the Old Bailey in 2023 after a lengthy legal process. For those affected by the derailment, support is available through Croydon Talking Therapies for individuals aged 18 and over registered with a local GP.

A memorial service is scheduled to take place at 11am on November 9 at Market Square in New Addington, where a permanent memorial stands. Croydon Mayor Jason Perry and other local leaders are expected to speak at the event.

Mark Davis, TfL's General Manager for London Trams, stated that the organisation remembers the seven lives tragically lost and pays tribute to their memory. He added that TfL remains committed to supporting those affected and to preventing future tragedies.