Bexhill man dies at level crossing

The 52-year-old-cyclist was hit by the 7.19pm Eastbourne to Hastings train, at the Pevensey Sluice gate crossing, on Herbrand Walk, down line from Cooden Beach Station.

David Dees, of Eastergate, Little Common, died at the scene of the accident from multiple injuries.

British Transport Police were notified just before 7.45pm on Saturday evening, and were at the scene with Bexhill police, fire fighters from the town and the coroner's officer.

Around 25 passengers on the train were left stranded when the power was cut to allow police investigators to determine the cause of the crash.

Officers ran vehicles through red lights to keep traffic moving.

The line was closed for about two hours, leaving time for Southern railways to make essential safety checks. Herbrand Walk was closed for just over an hour and a half.

Mr Dees, who had two children, moved to Bexhill from the Croydon area, where he and his family ran a successful car dealership business.

His estranged wife, Angela Dees, said: "He was a family man, a very devoted and loving father and was extremely supportive of his two children.

"He was very sociable and had a great outlook on life, with a wonderful sense of humour."

British Transport Police are asking witnesses to contact 0800 40 50 40.