It is estimated that the train passed through Dove Holes station at about 25 m.p.h. and reached a speed of 55 m.p.h. at the moment of the collision; the speed would have risen to nearly 80 m.p.h. at Whaley Bridge if the train had had a clear run, though it might easily have become derailed on one of the many sharp curves which impose a restriction of 50 m.p.h. between Chapel-en-le-Frith and Disley. If the train had remained on the rails and had not met any other obstruction it would probably have stopped about half a mile short of the second long falling gradient at Disley.

None of the freight train or banking engine crews was in any way to blame for the runaway. Driver Axon and Fireman Scanlon showed great courage and determination in their endeavours to close the regulator after the steam joint had failed, and Scanlon made a plucky effort to carry out his driver's orders to pin down wagon brakes. Driver Axon would have saved his life by abandoning the engine but he stayed on the footplate to give a warning to the Dove Holes signalman that the train was running away and no doubt in the hope of regaining control on a more favourable gradient. He set an outstanding example of devotion to duty, and I am very pleased to record that he has since been awarded the George Cross posthumously."