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John Redwood MP leads tributes after fatal collision at Ufton Nervet

By Laura Herbert
May 22, 2012

John Redwood MP has led tributes to a man who died at Ufton Nervet this afternoon.

British Transport Police say the incident involved a scooter and a train. The rider, who is believed to be a man in his fourties, has died. There are not thought to be any other injuries.

The collision happened in the Ufton Lane vicinity where there was a serious incident in 2004.

On his blog Mr Redwood, whose constituency includes Ufton Nervet, said: "I was saddened today to hear of another accident at the Ufton Nervet railway crossing. I understand a scooter rider was knocked down and killed by the oncoming Paddington to Taunton train.

"I send my condolences to the rider’s family. It will come as a great shock to lose a loved one so suddenly like that.

"The train was brought to a halt without any injury to people on board. Preliminary reports suggest that the crossing was working as it should. I have asked to be kept informed, and will of course take action should those involved wish me to assist them."

Witness Nick Harborne, of Canal Experience Limited, said: "I heard a big bang and a lot of braking.

"I heard someone say that the train had derailed but it was not on its side. I don't know what it collided with."

Mr Harborne who was at the Kennet and Avon Canal mending a canal boat at the time said the crash happened at about 1.15pm.

He said: "Before I left there were lots of sirens, ambulances and police cars."

Trains between Reading and Thatcham are delayed and could be cancelled at short notice, according to First Great Western spokesman James Davis.

He added: "There isn't a rail replacement service in place at the moment but we're doing all we can to provide a service.

"There is a limited service between Newbury and Bedwyn calling at Kintbury and Hungerford."

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Mr Redwood on the radio this morning said that travelling by train, because they couldn't stop of steer, and without seatbelts and with luggage "flying around all over the place", was extremely dangerous. However, in his car, with seatbelts and airbags and luggage safely in the boot, and a steering wheel, he was clearly much safer.

What is this man on?

Travelling on the road is one of the most dangerous ways to travel. Train travel is many times safer. I'd do it more often if it wasn't so darned expensive, and our "beloved" MP is trying to make it even more so.