FIRE crews were on the scene when a heritage train caught light in Swindon.

The red flag was raised on Sunday morning after an engine in a diesel multiple unit (DMU) caught fire.

Firefighters from across Swindon rushed to the scene on the Swindon and Cricklade Railway.

Swindon Advertiser:

Diesel multiple units are trains which can be controlled from either end with an engine in each car.

It is not clear which engine caught fire, but it is understood no one was injured.

A spokesperson for the Swindon and Cricklade Railway confirmed to the Adver that the fire was now out, and they were called as a precaution.

Fire crews stayed on the scene to check over the vehicle.

The railway which runs from Taw Valley Halt near Moulden Hill Country Park to Hayes Knoll is currently in the middle of operating Santa specials using a GWR steam locomotive from Blunsdon to Hayes Knoll.

Organisers were using the DMU as a shuttle service between Blunsdon and Taw Valley Halt.

But the railway has confirmed that these services will no longer operate for the foreseeable future.

In a statement on Facebook, the heritage railway, said: “Our Taw Valley Halt Station at Moulden Hill Country Park is CLOSED from now until further notice.

“Please do not attempt to board the train at Taw Valley Halt.

“Trains can be accessed from our main Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane, SN25 2DA.

“This closure does not directly affect any Santa Special services - those with tickets will still be able to visit Santa during their booked time as planned.

“The only service affected by this is our additional diesel shuttle service that runs between Blunsdon and Taw Valley Halt.

“Trains are continuing to run without issue from Blunsdon to the North Pole (Hayes Knoll).”

Officials then issued an updated statement a short time later confirming the fire. 

A spokesperson said: "Today, a fire broke out in the DMU engine.

"The situation was dealt with expertly and the fire brigade was in attendance.

"It was quickly dealt with and thorough inspections carried out to ensure full safety and no further risk.

"Thankfully, there was no harm or injury to any of our crews, volunteers or visitors. 
Huge thank you to the Wilts & Dorset Fire Crews for their swift response and support today. 

"Another huge thank you to all our volunteering staff who worked hard to ensure minimal distribution to the Santa Special Service and for their care and support towards the volunteers who were involved. 

"The unfortunate event means this loco is now out of action for the foreseeable however our last Santa Special weekend (17th & 18th Dec) will not be affected and will continue to run.