JCB Driver Arrested After Vehicle Gets Stuck On Railway Line

Train service suspended whilst Police clear tracks at Grove Park's level crossing

A JCB driver has been arrested on suspicion of 'endangering safety' after his vehicle got stuck on the level crossing in Grove Park.

The incident happened just before 11.00am on Thursday 21st October.

A British Transport Police (BTP) spokesman told ChiswickW4.com: “BTP and Metropolitan police officers were called to Grove Park level crossing in Chiswick after a report that a vehicle had struck the level crossing barriers.

“At this stage, it appears that a JCB struck the barriers and became lodged on the rail line.

“Train services were stopped whilst the vehicle was removed.

“Officers are currently making local enquiries into the incident to establish the full circumstances and anyone with information is urged to contact police.”

A 48-year-old man from Andover was arrested at the scene and has been bailed to return on Friday, 19 November.

The line was handed back to Network Rail at 12.38pm.

BTP work with Network Rail to educate motorists about the correct use of level crossings and the dangers that can be posed by misusing them. "Incredibly some people are still putting their lives on the line by ignoring warning lights and sirens and trying to dash through crossings when trains are approaching," said a spokesman for BTP.

"This is hugely irresponsible, dangerous and causes a huge amount of disruption to passengers and road users. We will not hesitate to take action against anyone caught doing so. Level crossings are designed to keep people safe. And, when used correctly, that is exactly what they do. But, as the figures suggest, when people ignore the warnings, there can be tragic consequences.”

October 23, 2010