First Great Western apologises for 'callous' suicide announcement

Announcer said train was delayed because someone 'couldn't be bothered to live anymore'

(REUTERS/Luke MacGregor)

Train company First Great Western has apologised after a staff member told passengers on a delayed train that the lateness was because someone "couldn't be bothered to live anymore".

After a death on the line between Slough and Reading on Friday, the announcement was made twice over the loudspeaker by a member of train staff.

Esmee Phillips was travelling to Plymouth on the train when the announcement was made. Speaking to the BBC, she said it left other passengers "completely open-mouthed".

She said the announcement said: "Our delays are due to someone who couldn't be bothered to live anymore."

"Because of this, there are severe delays. Some of you have missed your connecting flights for the bank holiday."

She called the announcement "callous and tasteless".

First Great Western apologised for the employee's cruel comments.

They said: "We expect high standards from our onboard teams, who are trained to make clear announcements about delays."

"When this involves a fatality this should be done with sensitivity and care. We're sorry for any distress caused to customers yesterday and can confirm that this incident is under investigation."

The Samaritans provides a free support service for those who need to talk to someone. It can be contacted through Samaritans.org or on 08457 90 90 90, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year