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A collision between a train and a delivery van at a crossing in Burscough, West Lancashire, has resulted in the death of the van driver. The incident occurred around 15:00 GMT on Saturday, when a Northern train traveling from Southport to Manchester struck what is believed to be a supermarket delivery vehicle near the junction of Martin Lane and Whitehouse Lane. Authorities are currently investigating how the crash happened.
Local residents have reported to the BBC that the gate at the crossing is frequently left open by users. While Network Rail has not directly addressed these claims, it confirmed its participation in an ongoing investigation alongside British Transport Police and the Rail Accident Investigation Board. The collision happened as the train was approaching Burscough town center. A passenger on the train witnessed the van moving along Martin Lane shortly before the impact.
The crossing involved is not a traditional full level crossing but is instead manually operated by users. It includes lights and warning sounds that activate if the gate remains open. A man familiar with the area told the BBC that the gate is often left open and used mainly by locals and farmers, although more delivery drivers have been using it recently. He expressed hope for an automated gate system that restricts access and noted that he had raised concerns with Network Rail. The crossing is equipped with a CCTV camera, and it is classified as a “user-worked crossing with miniature stop lights,” with a risk rating indicating both a high individual risk and a very high collective risk.
Among those on the train was Sophie Cassidy, who was traveling with her two young children at the time of the crash. She described the harrowing experience and expressed relief for their safety, stating, “I can’t put into words how lucky we are to be alive. I’m still trying to wrap my mind around it all.” Emergency services helped passengers disembark about two hours after the accident. The railway line remains closed more than 24 hours later as investigations continue. Network Rail has confirmed it is supporting police and safety authorities with inquiries, while British Transport Police stated that enquiries are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the collision
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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