On the morning of May 22, 2025, at approximately 10:37, a serious incident occurred involving the 08:30 Transport for Wales passenger service traveling from Manchester to Cardiff. The train collided with a loaded agricultural trailer being hauled by a tractor at the Nordan Farm user-worked level crossing, near Leominster. The collision resulted in damage to the train, the trailer, and surrounding infrastructure. Fortunately, no fatalities occurred, but several people were treated for minor injuries. This report outlines the initial analysis of the event and the ongoing investigation.
Details of the Incident
According to the initial findings from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), the train was traveling at around 80 mph (129 km/h) when it struck the trailer at the Nordan Farm level crossing. The impact caused the trailer to detach from the tractor and become lodged on the front of the train. Despite the severe collision, the train did not derail. However, the leading vehicle—a driving van trailer—and several of the leading passenger coaches were damaged.
There were 66 passengers and 8 staff members aboard the train at the time of the incident. Six passengers were reported to have sustained minor injuries, and all of them received medical attention. The tractor driver, fortunately, was unharmed in the accident. The collision also caused damage to the agricultural trailer, railway track, lineside equipment, and a second level crossing beyond Nordan Farm.
Nordan Farm Crossing and Safety Protocols
The Nordan Farm user-worked level crossing is equipped with telephones, and users are required by law to call a signaller to get permission before crossing the gates. According to the evidence available to RAIB, the tractor driver followed the proper protocol by calling the signaller before proceeding to cross the railway. This information is important for the ongoing investigation, as it suggests that the tractor driver adhered to the safety procedure that was in place at the time.
Ongoing Investigation
RAIB’s investigation will continue to determine the full sequence of events that led to the collision. Key areas under investigation include:
- The actions of the people involved in the incident and any potential factors that influenced their decisions.
- A review of any previous incidents or near-misses at Nordan Farm user-worked crossing that may be relevant to this accident.
- An analysis of how risks are managed at this crossing, including Network Rail’s wider strategy for assessing and mitigating risks at similar crossings.
- Any underlying factors that may have contributed to the incident.
It is important to note that RAIB’s investigation is independent of any investigations by the railway industry or the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), the industry’s regulator.
Next Steps and Report Publication
At the conclusion of the investigation, RAIB will publish its findings, which will include any recommendations to improve safety and prevent similar incidents in the future. The final report will be made available on the RAIB website. In addition, individuals can subscribe to automated email notifications to be alerted when the report is published.
This collision at Nordan Farm user-worked level crossing serves as a reminder of the potential dangers at railway crossings, especially those where safety protocols rely on user compliance. As the investigation continues, the aim will be to uncover any underlying issues and make safety recommendations to prevent such accidents in the future. The RAIB’s independent report will provide crucial insights and contribute to ongoing safety improvements within the railway sector.
