Car hit by slow-moving train at railway crossing

Cornwall Fire and Rescue say it happened on the Coombe Halt Crossing

Author: Oliver MorganPublished 24th May 2023
Last updated 25th May 2023

A car has been hit by a slow-moving train in Liskeard.

It happened on the Coombe Halt Crossing earlier this afternoon (24 May), with services suspended between Liskeard and Looe as the emergency services dealt with the incident.

It forced the car up against a lamppost, with the driver later freed by the fire service and given first aid at the scene.

In a statement, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said: "Both appliances from Liskeard and the Rescue Tender from Bodmin mobilised to a report of a car that had been hit by a train at the crossing.

"On arrival the crew confirmed that one car had collided with a slow moving light two carriage train on the branch line.

"The vehicle, which had been pushed up against a lamppost had mechanically entrapped the male driver inside by crushing the door.

"Firefighters successfully released the male, giving first aid at the scene. Rail staff, Ambulance and Police were also on scene."

Rail replacement buses are in place following the incident between Liskeard and Looe, with all lines blocked.

If you're going out and about, always check before you travel. You can check your journey with National Rail Enquiries real-time journey planner here.

A spokesperson for the British Transport Police said: "Officers were called to the line in Liskeard at 4.06pm on 24 May following reports of a car being hit by a train.

"Emergency services attended and the driver of the car was treated at the scene for minor injuries. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened."

In an update, the British Transport Police confirmed the car was on the tracks without permission - the force says anyone going over the Coombe Halt Crossing needs the go-ahead from a signaller.

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