A CYCLIST was injured after two carriages broke loose from the Hengistbury Head land train and collided with her.

The woman, in her 60s, was treated at the scene following the incident just after 3.30pm on Monday. Her injuries are not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening.

Now the service has been suspended until investigations into the accident are complete.

The Health and Safety Executive has been informed about the accident and a spokesman for Dorset Police confirmed the force is also investigating the circumstances.

There were no passengers on the train at the time of the incident.

A member of the public, who does not wish to be named, told the Daily Echo: “I saw the last two carriages of the train on their own with a couple of people on the ground, almost under the carriage.

“They were against the fence and surrounded by three or four other cyclists. As I walked toward the car park I saw a police car and a responder-type vehicle drive along the footpath towards the scene.”

The land train, which runs from the Hungry Hiker cafe to Mudeford Sandbank all year round, is operated by Bournemouth council.

The popular, old-fashioned train attracts thousands of people to visit the Hengistbury Head nature reserve every year.

It celebrated its 50th anniversary earlier this year, prompting generations of people to share their childhood memories of the train.

Michael Rowland, Bournemouth council’s, head of park’s development said: “The land train service at Hengistbury Head has been temporarily suspended due to an accident resulting from a mechanical failure on the luggage trailer.

“Our first concern is the wellbeing of the cyclist involved in the collision, who was assisted by site based staff. We understand that she has now been released from hospital.

“We’re currently helping the Police and the Health & Safety Executive with an investigation into the cause of the accident. We will be ensuring that all trains are thoroughly safety checked before the service is resumed.”