A PROBE has been launched into a train derailment which caused rail chaos in Bolton.

The derailment between Deansgate station, in Manchester city centre, and Ordsall Lane junction in Salford, on January 23, involved a locomotive being hauled at the rear of a train.

The train was en-route from Ardwick maintenance depot in Manchester to Carnforth, Lancashire, and was travelling at 18mph when the locomotive derailed and caught fire. No-one was injured, but the line was closed for repairs for two days and train bosses were forced to provide replacement bus services.

Now the Department of Transport’s rail accident investigation branch (RAIB) has confirmed it will be looking into the incident.

A spokesman said: “The investigation will examine the sequence of events leading up to the accident and the cause of the derailment. This will include consideration of the design, maintenance and condition of both the track and the derailed locomotive.

“The RAIB will publish its findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of its investigation.”