Dog dragged to its death by Thameslink train and found in nearby tunnel

Rail operators will be probed on how they let a train to depart from a station and drag a dog, which was later found dead in a tunnel, from its disabled owner.

An investigation has been launched into the incident on the Thameslink train, which was leaving Elstree and Borehamwood station when the dog's lead was trapped in the doors.

Disabled pensioner Rose Barry was trying to board a carriage and struggled to load on her walking frame, luggage, and Shih Tzu, Jonty, before the train departed.

The 75-year-old retired nurse and her dog were left standing on the platform when her hand, and the dogs lead, became trapped in the doors.

She was able to pull herself free but the lead remained stuck as the train started to move - even though she "hammered on the doors" and called for passengers to help.

Jonty was dragged the length of the platform as the train departed, and was found dead in a tunnel near the station.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) said it is investigating a number of issues which arose in the September 7 incident, including the procedures for dispatching Thameslink trains, the ability of train doors to detect trapped objects and Govia Thameslink Railway systems that ensure the competence of drivers.

Ms Barry, who has back problems, said "It was terrible. There is a curve in the platform and either the driver couldn't, or failed to, look at the CCTV.

"He should have been able to see me standing there, half on the train.

"Obviously he didn't because the doors shut and he left immediately. There was no hesitation. I hammered the doors. Yelled at everybody."

She had previously told of her ordeal: "I could see Jonty dangling from the carriage into the gap between the platform and the rails.

"Perhaps if it had been a child who had got caught, things would have been different.”

The RAIB will publish its findings and any safety recommendations at the conclusion of its investigation.

A Thameslink spokesperson said: "We are very sorry for the distress caused to Ms Barry by this deeply upsetting incident. We launched an immediate investigation and informed the Rail Accident Investigation Branch."

Additional reporting by Press Association