Greece train crash: Travel advice issued for UK residents after dozens killed and scores injured

The UK Foreign Office has issued travel advice to people flying to Greece, after a high speed head-on collision between two trains in central Greece killed dozens of people and injured scores of others, including children.

The collision took place in the early hours of Wednesday (March 1) near Vale of Tempe, a gorge separating the regions of Thessaly and Macedonia, near Larissa, about 230 north of Athens. Authorities have reported 36 people were found dead and a further 66 people are  in hospital, including six in intensive care.

The Times reported at least four carriages caught fire, as live television footage broadcast by state and othermedia showed smoke billowing from several train cars that derailed metres from a tunnel.

About 150 firefighters were sent to the scene to recover passengers from the train, which was headed towards the northern Greek port city of Thessaloniki. Hellenic Train, the rail operator, said at least 350 people had been on board when the train crashed.

Now, the UK Foreign Office has advised people travelling from the UK to check the ‘Entry requirement’s’ section for Greece’s current entry restrictions and requirements as these may change with little warning.

It said: “We are closely monitoring reports of a collision involving two trains near the city of Larissa, in the early hours on 1 March. If you are in the area please follow the advice of local authorities. The Greek government has established emergency hotlines for those requiring assistance; 00 30 2410683175 and 00 30 2410683176.”