On the evening of 8 April, 1953, signal failures led to delays on the Central line, with drivers again following 'stop and proceed' rules. However, a train heading eastbound towards Epping ploughed into the back of a stationary train waiting in the tunnel between Stratford and Leyton just before 7pm, leaving twelve passengers dead and many wounded.

The driver was hurt but survived and was later charged with having ignored the 'stop and proceed' rules by a Public Inquiry.

 It was the 6.55 Epping train which run into the back of a Hainaught bound train.

Seem the driver passed a signal at Red, and because the tunnel curves round he did not see the other train which was standing still until it was too late.

There are various reports on the incident which states 12 killed, but the British Pathe News states 8 adults and one child.

Amongst the 42 who were injured was the driver of the Epping Train who had to have his leg Amputated

MEMORIES OF THE 1953 FLOODS  BY MS. M. YATES OF MORGAN STREET, CANNING TOWN

Medal awarded to Mr J.J. Betts. He was one of the Firemen who attended the Silvertown Explosion on 19th January 1917 and miraculously survived. This long service Medal inscribed J.J. Betts 1919 on the edge, has the image of a fireman being crowned with a wreath by a draped figure and an old fire engine in the background on the front. On the reverse (attached file) a border of leaves around the words, Association of Professional Fire Brigade Officers For Long Service.

From the Newham Heritage & Archives collection

Recollections of the Silvertown Explosion by Ex-Supernumerary Fireman T. R. Betts, Silvertown Fire Station.