British Transport Police have confirmed there were no injuries after an empty freight train struck a car at a Silverdale level crossing.

The force (BTP), along with Lancashire Police and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, were called to the Slackwood Lane crossing at 7.05pm.

A spokesperson said: “BTP officers attended and discovered a car had been struck by a train at the crossing.

“No-one has been injured and the train remained upright.

“Officers are now working with the fire service to remove the car and have launched an investigation to determine how it came to be on the tracks. The driver of the car and train will also be interviewed.”

The driver of the train is being treated for shock.

Cars coming from the Carnforth direction, along New Road, are being diverted up Crag Road and into Warton. There is also diversions in place at the Silverdale side, and the road is expected to be closed for the next few hours.

Buses are replacing trains between Barrow and Carnforth and delays are expected.