Burscough – Train route to remain closed following crash

The incident happened on Saturday afternoon when a train hit a van.

British Transport Police said the man was pronounced dead at the scene and two train passengers were treated for minor injuries.

MORE: Man dead after train strikes van in Burscough

In an update this morning, rail operator Northern said: “Due to emergency services dealing with an incident between Wigan Wallgate and Southport the line is blocked

“Services running to and from these stations will be delayed or cancelled. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.”

Emergency services at the scene on Saturday (Image: Phil Taylor)

A spokesperson for the British Transport Police said: “We were called to a level crossing in Burscough, West Lancashire following reports at 3.18pm today (29 August) that a train had struck a van. Paramedics and the fire service also attended.

“One person was in the van and sadly a man was pronounced dead at the scene. Two people who were passengers on the train received treatment for minor injuries. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened, any witnesses who haven’t already spoken to police are asked to text BTP on 61016 quoting the reference 373 of 29 August.”

The train operator has shared a list of alternative routes passengers can take at no further cost until the disruption is resolved.

Bee Network buses between Wigan and Appley Bridge on the 635 bus. Merseyrail services between Southport and Liverpool Central. Merseyrail services between Ormskirk and Liverpool Central and Merseyrail services between Headbolt Lane and Liverpool Central.