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Train crashes with tractor near Welshpool crossing Passenger tells of 'almighty bang' as train hits tractor near Welshpool
(about 1 hour later)
A train has crashed into a tractor on a level crossing near Welshpool, Powys, emergency services say. A passenger has spoken of the "almighty bang" and screams after a train hit a tractor on a level crossing near Welshpool, Powys.
The tractor, which was towing a trailer, was hit by the 10:08 BST Birmingham to Aberystwyth service near Buttington Crossing at about 11:49 BST. Two people were taken to hospital with minor injuries, while both the drivers of the Birmingham to Aberystwyth train and the tractor were left shaken.
Between 150 and 200 passengers were on board, but only two people suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital. "Several people at the front were screaming," said passenger Greg Nickson.
Services between Shrewsbury and Machynlleth are suspended. Up to 200 people were on board when the crash happened at 11:49 BST.
A British Transport Police (BTP) spokesman said: "The train remained upright and on the tracks following the collision, although the front cab of the train has been damaged." Rail services were suspended between Shrewsbury and Machynlleth.
He added: "An investigation will be launched into the cause of the collision, including how the vehicle came to be on the tracks, and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has been notified." A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of endangering safety after the incident near Buttington Crossing.
BTP and Dyfed-Powys Police attended, while Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service sent four engines. Mr Nickson said the conductor had just finished checking tickets when the crash happened.
A Welsh Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We sent four emergency ambulances and one basics doctor to the scene. "I lurched forward in my seat and my phone and drink went flying, as well as my bag next to me," he told BBC Wales.
"In addition, two helimed helicopters and the hazardous area response team (Hart) were mobilised but not required. "There was a lot of smoke and dust coming past the windows and the train slowed down very fast."
"Two patients were treated at the scene for minor injuries and conveyed to the minor injuries unit in Welshpool. Mr Nickson said the front right glass window of the train was badly damaged but still intact.
"No further casualties were identified at scene." "I remember the conductor running down the aisle screaming the driver's name.
The National Rail Enquiries website reports that a "problem at a level crossing" has suspended trains between Shrewsbury and Machynlleth. "The driver compartment was heavily damaged, the front metal door was bent, the glass smashed and debris from the driver compartment was on the floor at the front.
"Several people at the front were screaming."
He added the driver was "fine, just a bit shaken".
"The conductor said there were 104 passengers on board."
Supt Andy Morgan from British Transport Police (BTP) said: "Our investigation is continuing into the cause of the collision, including piecing together exactly how the vehicle came to be on the tracks at the time.
"As part of that investigation, a 27-year-old man has this afternoon been arrested on suspicion of endangering safety. He has been taken to a police station, where he is assisting my officers with their enquiries.
"Measures are now in place to remove the vehicle from the tracks and recover the train.
"Officers from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) are currently on site and have begun their investigation."
Dyfed-Powys Police attended the incident and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service sent four engines.
The Welsh Ambulance Service sent four emergency ambulances and one doctor to the scene.
"In addition, two heli-med helicopters and the hazardous area response team (Hart) were mobilised but not required.
"Two patients were treated at the scene for minor injuries and conveyed to the minor injuries unit in Welshpool," the ambulance service spokesperson added.