Elderly passenger has lucky escape while boarding train at Manulla junction

A WOMAN passenger sustained injuries when falling while boarding a train at Manulla junction on Sunday evening, Irish Rail has confirmed, reports CLAIRE McNAMARA.

AN elderly passenger travelling on the Dublin-Westport line yesterday evening had a lucky escape after accidentally falling onto the tracks.

The woman, who disembarked from the train at Manulla junction at around 16.45 to take the Ballina train, slipped between the train and the platform. The Ballina train was at the platform at the time of the incident.

Scenes of horror unfolded as other passengers, including Irish Rail staff frantically rushed to assist the woman and bring her to safety.

The departure of the both the Westport and Ballina services were held while assistance was provided.

Several passengers who assisted and witnessed the incident were extremely shaken and shook.

Speaking to The Connaught Telegraph, Barry Kenny, communications manager with Irish Rail, said: "They were made aware of an incident that an elderly woman fell while boarding the Ballina train at 16.45 yesterday evening.

"The customer declined medical attention at the scene, and travelled onwards to Ballina, but an ambulance was called for Ballina as a precaution, and was at the station on its arrival. Meanwhile, Irish Rail are grateful for the response of both its staff and customers", he said.

Local councillor Michael Kilcoyne said it was outrageous that an elderly passenger fell and was lucky she was not injured.

Separately, Irish Rail need to provide a better service to ensure the safety of their passengers.