I read the letter about the alleged crossing problem in the Voice last week with near disbelief.
It is almost exactly 50 years since the dreadful level crossing accident at Hixon, when an express train collided with a transporter slowly crossing the line at a crossing, with a number of fatalities.
Entering the yellow box without the exit being cleared enough to allow complete clearance of the barriers is a very serious offence indeed.
Following the modernisation so this line (known as the “joint” line) recently, we are fortunate indeed that key crossings like this one are continuously monitored at the control centre.
I sincerely hope that the cameras have caught the registration number of the unbelievably irresponsible driver, who could have endangered life and limb, and not just of his or her self.
Can we hope that the individual concerned will be prosecuted vigorously, and perhaps disqualified from driving for a minimum of five years?
I would even recommend that the vehicle be seized and crushed.
This is irresponsible driving on a very serious scale, and an example should be made.
Fingers crossed that this gets sorted as soon as possible.
Anyone in doubt, please Google the Hixon accident and look at the result.
The rules were changed after that accident, specifically to discourage the behaviour of this – what I can only describe as – extremely lucky “road hog”.
Chris Brewis
Sutton Bridge
