Van hits train at level crossing

A van has crashed into the side of a train at a level crossing in the north of Scotland.

Emergency services were called to the crash near Halkirk in Caithness, on the line between Georgemas and Thurso.

The van hit the side of a ScotRail passenger train at 1145 GMT. The van driver sustained minor injuries, and had to be cut free from his vehicle.

In September last year, three people were killed in a crash at a different level crossing at Halkirk.

A spokesman for Northern Constabulary said: "The passenger train was carrying five passengers and three members of staff, none of whom sustained any injuries.

"The van driver was cut free from the van which was trapped at the scene. He was taken to Caithness General Hospital for medical treatment for minor injuries."

British Transport Police said the driver had attempted to brake but had struck the rear coach of the 0706 GMT service from Inverness to Wick, injuring his wrist.

This type of accident will continue to keep happening until barriers are installed for the safety of motorists, rail staff and train passengers Dave Thomson MSP

It is not known if the bad weather was a factor in the crash, which happened on the B874 at Hoy, to the north east of Halkirk, but officers could not rule out the possibility.

The accident happened close to the Bridge Street level crossing in Halkirk, where three members of the same family were killed when their car collided with a train. Neither of the crossings has a safety barrier.

SNP Highlands and Islands MSP Dave Thomson, who has been involved in a campaign for barriers to be introduced, said urgent action was needed to prevent further accidents.

"Obviously I am very concerned to hear there has been another accident at an open level crossing in the Highlands," Mr Thompson said.

"Fortunately nobody appears to have been seriously hurt this time but this goes to show that this type of accident will continue to keep happening until barriers are installed for the safety of motorists, rail staff and train passengers."

Of the 23 open level crossings in Scotland, 21 are in the Highlands.