Investigation into train crash

CHAOS hit the railway lines when a train crashed into a tractor trailer on a railway crossing.

The accident happened at the Loover Barn level crossing, between Glynde and Berwick railway stations, at 3.25pm on Friday.

The 2.58pm Eastbourne to London Victoria Southern train was travelling at 80 mph when it hit a trailer.

Both the train and the trailer were damaged.

The train did not de-rail and no one was injured.

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A Southern Railway spokesman said: 'As a result of this incident, Southern services were subject to alterations, cancellations and delays until the end of service.

'The incident was investigated by the Rail Accident Investigation Board.'

Passengers faced a long wait after trains from Eastbourne to Brighton were either cancelled or delayed.

Rail replacement buses were used between Eastbourne and Lewes, and Seaford and Lewes.

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Brighton and Hove Buses also accepted rail tickets from stranded passengers.

Trains were reported to be stationary between Polegate and Berwick.

All Ashford trains were stopped at Eastbourne.

Officials from The Rail Accident Investigation Branch visited the scene to investigate the crash.

A spokesman said a 'preliminary' examination had been carried out.

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He said: 'The branch does not intend to carry out a separate investigation into this incident.

'It will include the incident in a more general investigation into user worked crossings that it is proposing to carry out.

'The branch's role is to investigate railway accidents and make recommendations to improve railway safety.'

British Transport Police also attended the crash scene.

Trains began moving again in the Eastbourne area at 5pm and the Lewes area around 7.15pm.