One dead and child injured as train hits car

A person has died and a child is in hospital with life-threatening injuries after their car was struck by a train at a level crossing.

It happened at about 08:50 BST at a crossing on Station Road in Hoghton, near Preston in Lancashire, British Transport Police (BTP) said.

Paramedics and the fire service are in attendance, but there have been no other injuries reported, while the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) announced investigators have been sent to the scene.

Northern Trains warned passengers to check their routes before travelling as there is disruption to the network.

North West Ambulance Service said several clinical teams attended the scene, including the hazardous area response team and two air ambulances.

"Sadly, a child has sustained life-threatening injuries and has been taken to Alder Hey Children's Hospital for further treatment.

"No passengers from the train required treatment from ambulance crews," a spokesman said.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Services told the BBC four fire engines and specialist appliances are in attendance and are asking the public to avoid the area.

A BTP spokesperson said: "Two people were in the car and sadly one was pronounced dead at the scene, the other is being taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries."

Chris Wright, Network Rail North West route director, said they are "working closely with the emergency services" following the "tragic incident".

"We will fully support the investigation by the emergency services and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch to understand what has happened," he said.

Tricia Williams, managing director of Northern, said: "We can confirm the 7.51am Colne to Preston service was involved in a collision with a car at a level crossing in Hoghton this morning.

"Our thoughts are with the person who sadly died in the collision and the other passenger in the car who has been taken to hospital.

"We are now working to support the emergency services, Network Rail and Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) and will co-operate fully with the investigation into what happened."

A spokesperson for RAIB said a team of inspectors has been sent to gather evidence as part of a preliminary examination and "a decision on whether or not an investigation will be launched will be taken in the coming days".

Anyone who witnessed what happened has been asked to contact Lancashire Police.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.