Digger left on track causes train fire

Detectives from the British Transport Police have launched an investigation following a train fire near Craven Arms (Shropshire) on May 22.

BTP confirmed that the train caught fire after hitting a mini digger that had been left on the tracks.

The Transport for Wales service is believed to have been travelling at around 60mph when the collision occurred at 2230, causing fuel to leak from beneath the train and ignite.

Some 60 passengers were safely evacuated from the train, with only one minor injury recorded.

Services had resumed by May 24, after the Marches Line was closed between Shrewsbury and Hereford.

In terms of the ongoing criminal investigation, detectives said that a second digger had been located close by.

Initial enquiries suggest that both vehicles had been stolen from a nearby rental yard and then discarded on railway property.

The BTP has appealed for anyone who may have information to get in touch by texting 61016 or calling 0800 405040, quoting reference number 665 of 22/05/22.