Appeal to help Bedford train crash victims opens

Three community foundations have joined together to launch an emergency appeal to help people affected by the Bedford rail crash.

Train driver Shaun Burton died and more than 100 people were taken to hospital following the collision between two East Midlands Railway services on Friday.

Northamptonshire Community Foundation, Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation and Forever Notts said their appeal was made "in recognition of the cross-county impact of the incident".

The organisations said they had a "shared commitment to support individuals and families affected" by the incident.

They said the funds would help those experiencing serious injuries, psychological trauma and financial hardship as a direct result of the crash.

Rachel McGrath, Northamptonshire Community Foundation's chief executive, said: "With the involvement of a rush-hour Corby service, this is something that has been felt strongly across our communities.

"By working with our neighbouring foundations, we are committed to ensuring support reaches those who need it most in the days and months ahead."

Karen Perkins, chief executive of Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation, said: "Our hearts go out to all those affected and we are committed to ensuring any support and donations raised find their way securely to those most in need."

Nina Dauban, Forever Notts' chief executive, added the group was "proud to support this emergency appeal" and their "hearts go out to all those involved".

The community foundations said the fund would be administered by the National Emergencies Trust, the Fundraising Regulator and the Charity Commission to ensure all donations were managed responsibly and "reach those most in need".

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