Man killed in tractor/train crash

Passengers on the train heard a bang and saw smoke

A farmer has been killed in a collision between a train and tractor in County Londonderry.

James Craig, 70, died in the crash at an unmanned crossing on the Carrowclare Road near Limavady at 1530 BST. He had been driving the tractor.

Translink said there were no reports of injuries to train passengers or staff, but the train driver was very shaken.

An investigation is under way. Train services were disrupted. Passengers were bussed to their destination.

Mr Craig's son, Robert, described his father as a character.

He said he had been checking his fields to see if straw was ready for baling just before the accident happened.

Tractor driver James Craig died in the incident

"He loved farming, his life was for farming. He took very little holidays, just worked hard and he kept us working hard," he said.

"He was a strong Christian man, loved his church and he has gone to rest with the Lord."

The crash involved the 15.05 train from Londonderry.

'Tragic accident'

Passengers on the train reported hearing a loud bang at about 1530 BST and seeing smoke and sparks. The driver then informed them there had been a collision.

A spokesperson for Northern Ireland Railways said: "It would appear from early investigations that this has been a tragic accident.

"Northern Ireland Railways would like to extend their condolences to the family and friends of the driver of the tractor".

The passengers were kept on board for 90 minutes before being put on buses to complete their journey.