One dead as train strikes van at level crossing

Police were called to the scene of the crash at a level crossing in Teynham

One person has died in a crash involving a train and a van at a level crossing in Kent.

Kent Police said it was called at about 12:40 BST to the crash at the crossing in Lower Road, Teynham.

Paramedics attended but a person was pronounced dead at the scene, (BTP) British Transport Police said.

There is severe disruption to train services in the area, with trains unable to travel between Newington and Faversham and a replacement bus service in operation.

The crash happened in a village between Sittingbourne and Faversham

BTP said the crash was under investigation.

South East Coast Ambulance Service and Kent Fire & Rescue Service also attended.

Southeastern said: "A train was involved in a collision with a van at a level crossing near Teynham earlier this afternoon.

"We are working with the emergency services and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch following this incident.

"Passengers on the train involved have been transferred onto another train and taken to Sittingbourne for onward travel."

Southeastern said the line, between Gillingham and Faversham, was not expected to reopen on Sunday night.