Driver was seconds from crossing smash

After near-miss at crossing

A motorist escaped being hit by a train by just seconds after driving through a lowered level crossing in Whittlesey. The near miss happened at the Kings Dyke level crossing at 9.46pm on March 24 after the barriers were lowered to allow a train which was just half a mile - or roughly 30 seconds - away to pass.

British Transport Police have released images of the damaged barriers and have warned the consequences could have been far more serious for both the driver and those on board the train.

Detective Constable Sarah Trotter said: “The 5.52pm service from Nottingham to Norwich was about half a mile away from the location and around 30 seconds train travelling time away when this car drove through.

“Luckily the signalman at the crossing was able to contact the train driver who in turn applied his brakes, by which time the car had c l e a re d t h e c ro s s i ng a nd made off.

“However, the actions of the car driver showed a complete disregard for the safety of both himself and those on the train, and the conse- quences could have been far more serious.

“The barriers were in the down position with the red lights flashing on both sides of the crossing to signal an oncoming train,” DC Trotter said.

“A g re y s a l o o n c a r a p - p ro a c h e d re g a rd l e s s a n d drove through the first barr i e r, d a mag i n g i t b e f o r e continuing to drive over the crossing.

“The force of the vehicle also pushed the second barrier on the opposite side up.

“The car then drove off in the direction of Whittlesey.”

Officers are trying to identify the driver. Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040 or text to 61016.

The damaged crossing