Commuters become "screaming" crowd as station shuts during rush hour (From Times Series)

Commuters become "screaming" crowd as station shuts during rush hour

2:16pm Tuesday 12th January 2010

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TRAIN passengers were left scrambling over ticket barriers this morning as Elstree and Borehamwood train station was closed due to overcrowding on the platform.

Passengers were told they could not go on to the platform due to safety reasons after the cancellation of two consecutive trains.

One commuter has complained station staff were not around to help what became a "screaming" crowd.

The Borehamwood commuter, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “I was stunned this morning to arrive at the station at approximately 8.20am to find the barriers were closed. On enquiring from another passenger I learnt that customers had been told the platform was overcrowded, thus no more people were being allowed in.

“When the train to St Pancras arrived it was empty. People on the platform got in but those behind the barrier were still not allowed in although the train remained half empty.

“People shouted and screamed for the station staff to open the barriers and let them in, but there was no station staff available other than a man selling tickets, which no one could buy as the crush in the station hall was immense.

“Some people tried to climb over the barrier and I believe one woman fell and hurt herself. Others in the front were crushed as people at the back were pushing them forward and on to the barrier.

“The crowd was really screaming and not one single station staff came to see what was going on.”

The commuter added a staff member opened the barriers after the train left at around 8.30am.

She said: “One staff member appeared and opened the barriers, but he refused to answer any questions to anyone although people were scrambling up to him to find out what was going on. It was absolute chaos and says the worst of FCC's service.

“It is obvious that the Borehamwood station is becoming one of the busiest on that line. More coaches must be put on and the industrial dispute with staff must be rectified immediately.”

Gareth Beazant, external communications manager, from First Capital Connect, said: "Due to the unfortunate cancellation of two consecutive trains we had to take the step to restrict access to the platform for safety reasons.

"Wherever possible we try not to prevent consecutive service cancellations however this we unavoidable this morning and we apologise for any inconvenience caused."

Were you there when the barriers closed to customers this morning? What time did you get to work? Share your experiences by commenting below or emailing ssharma@london.newsquest.co.uk