GWR staff are carrying out a full investigation following a low-speed collision between a train and a lorry close to Winchcombe station on 2nd July.  No-one was hurt in the incident.

The articulated lorry had been delivering track materials to the yard, using a crossing over the main line to gain access. The lorry driver, who knew a train was expected, manoeuvred his vehicle without authorisation on to the crossing just as a Toddington to Cheltenham service, hauled by Modified Hall 4-6-0 no. 7903 Foremarke Hall, approached. The train driver immediately applied the brake and gave a long warning whistle but nevertheless struck the side of the lorry at less than walking pace.

Commercial and Finance Director Malcolm Temple says: "The train crew were aware of work being carried out and were travelling cautiously. The driver acted with admirable promptness and in full accordance with the railway's safety rules. The lorry, which sustained minor damage, moved off the crossing under its own power and after inspection of the locomotive and track, the train continued on its journey about 10 minutes later.

"The RAIB (Rail Accident Investigation Board) has been informed and is taking no further action." 

Malcolm Temple points out that the GWR takes safety of its staff and visitors extremely seriously.  "We have an exemplary safety record but as a result of this collision we are nevertheless reviewing our safety procedures governing work being carried out alongside the line. 

"The GWR has run thousands of trains over the past 25 years and this is the first time an incident of this sort has happened."