Gillingham to London passenger train hits gas canister

A rail disaster was averted by "sheer luck" when a passenger train hit a gas canister thrown on to the line in Kent, police say.

The Gillingham to London Victoria train remained upright as it ground to a halt, just south of Swanley station.

But British Transport Police say there was a genuine risk of derailment.

Det Sgt Tony Samiotis said: "This could have been far worse. I cannot emphasise enough the dangers associated with this type of crime."

Police believe the canister was thrown deliberately on to the track, and are appealing for witnesses to contact them.

Det Sgt Samiotis added: "Fortunately, no-one was hurt during the incident, and the train remained upright on the tracks.

"However, this was just by sheer luck, and the consequences could have been far worse.

"It is vital that we find those responsible. Trains travel at high speeds and there is a very real risk when they strike objects on the track that they could be derailed."

The near-miss happened at about 11:00 BST on Saturday and caused delays of more than an hour and a half while the track - and train - were repaired.