Rail crash horror victim to sue

The crash at Ladbroke Grove, near Paddington, killed 31 people

A man who was severely injured in the Paddington rail crash in October 1999 is to launch a multi-million pound damages claim.

Michael Adams nearly died from horrific burns when the train went through a red signal and hit a London-bound Great Western service.

The 41-year-old former US serviceman was left permanently disabled after being pulled from the fire.

He is claiming damages from Thames Trains, who admit liability.

A pre-trial hearing was held at London's High Court on Friday, mapping out the shape the case will take.

The hearing will determine the level of damages to be awarded with 18 expert witnesses due to give evidence.

The claim is expected to amount to several million pounds for the effects of the burns, his loss of earnings and the cost of care. Thirty one people died in the accident.