IT IS a tragedy that an elderly woman was killed and so many people were injured in the Cumbrian rail crash.
But it is a miracle that the toll was not far worse and, for that, we must thank the designers and builders of the Pendolino train involved.
The robust carriages - among the last built at Alstom in Birmingham - withstood a massive impact as they careered off the track and yet the lights stayed on, the windows did not smash and most passengers were able to walk out unaided.
A similar concern for safety must apply to the railway tracks on which our trains run.
Network Rail must ensure that thorough and frequent checks are carried out so that there is no repeat.
Super-safe trains deserve super-safe tracks.