Rail worker killed by freight train

A railway worker died today after he was hit by an empty train returning to a depot.

British Transport Police (BTP) said the 60-year-old man was struck by a Northern Rail train at Whitehall Junction, Wortley, near Leeds.

The track worker was taken to Leeds General Infirmary by ambulance but later died.

A BTP spokesman said police were investigating the incident, adding: "Officers are currently informing the man's family, and are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

"The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has been informed."

Bob Crow, general secretary of the Rail Maritime and Transport union, said: "This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the friends and family of our member who has lost his life doing his job.

"RMT will be playing a full role in the investigations into exactly how it happened.

"We will ensure that there is an open and transparent inquiry, that the full facts are established and that any appropriate action is taken as a consequence of those investigations."