Prince Charles visits site of Scotland train derailment to thank first responders

Prince Charles today visited the site of the Scotland train derailment that killed three people on Wednesday.

The Duke of Rothesay, as he's known in Scotland, went to Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire to see the site of the accident, believed to have been caused by a landslide.

After looking at the recovery efforts of authorities, the royal met with first responders to hear their accounts of the day, but kept a social distance during the outdoor engagement.

Following the incident, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip sent their condolences to the families of the train driver and two others killed.

Her Majesty issued a statement to the Lord-Lieutenant of Kincardineshire, Carol Kinghorn, who represents the Crown where the derailment happened.

"It was with great sadness that I heard of the train derailment earlier today in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire," the Queen said in her message.

"The Duke of Edinburgh, and entire Royal Family, join me in sending our thoughts and prayers to the families of those who have died and those who have been injured.  Our thanks go out to the emergency services for their response and dedication."

The Queen and Prince Philip are currently staying at Balmoral Castle, in Aberdeenshire, about an hour away from the accident site.

Six passengers were taken to hospital to be treated for injuries, which were not believed to be serious.

It is believed the ScotRail service hit a landslide after heavy rain and thunderstorms which caused flooding and travel disruptions across Scotland.