More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Alarming footage shows a train packed full of people during the heatwave - with many neglecting to wear face masks.
As temperatures soared yesterday and thousands of sun-seekers flocked to the county's beaches, trains were rammed with people heading to spots including Margate.
Face coverings are mandatory on public transport, according to government coronavirus guidelines.
But a video taken on board a Southeastern train travelling from London to Margate showed rail users apparently flouting these rules.
Some passengers are wearing face masks. But around them, many have masks hanging futilely around their necks during the journey.
There is also little evidence of social distancing, due to the vast number of people on board.
The video has sparked shock from social media users, with one writing: "I think that is close to hell on Earth! No beach at the end of the journey is worth such a risky ride."
Tagging British Transport Police and rail firm Southeastern, another wrote: "Can any of you explain why mandatory wearing of face masks on public transport isn't being properly enforced in Thanet?"
Meanwhile, another dubbed the train "The Covid Express".
Southeastern says it is currently running eight and 12 carriage trains - the largest possible - to help enable social distancing.
It says it is also doing everything it can to ensure people can get hold of face coverings, including putting them in vending machines at stations and encouraging people to wear them.
But enforcing the use of face coverings on trains is the responsibility of British Transport Police, rather than the rail firm.
A Southeastern spokesman added: “We’re asking people to keep the railway clear for those who need it most and find another way to travel if possible.
"People who do need to travel should plan ahead, travel off-peak if they can when trains are less busy and consider others by wearing a face covering."
British Transport Police has been approached for more information.
The video comes after Thanet District Council announced it is seeking help from the government after 62,000 people descended on two of its beaches during yesterday's sweltering heat.
