UPDATE: Train services back to normal after level crossing drama in Billingshurst

A lorry was damaged after barriers came down on top of the vehicle at about 7.50am, which was stationary on the level crossing in Lower Station Road.

The incident, which caused ‘a hell of a mess’ according to an eyewitness, caused disruption on lines between Ford and Horsham into the early afternoon.

The eyewitness said: “The delivery lorry stopped across the level crossing as he wanted to park in front of Tesco Express, but there were cars parked there so he waited until they moved.

“That left the trailer on the lorry under the barrier which came down onto the lorry trailer and made a hell of a mess.

“I saw the lorry stop across the crossing and I knew it was going to happen.

“Sometimes the delivery lorries stop so the cars behind it are stuck on the crossing. That’s been me a couple of times.

“There will be one major accident soon where the trains smash into the cars or lorry.”

Replacement buses called at all stations between Horsham and Barnham as a result of the incident.

A spokesman for British Transport Police said: “We were called to a level crossing close to Billinghurst station this morning following reports of a lorry blocking the tracks.

“Officers from BTP, Sussex Police and engineers from Network Rail attended where the lorry was removed and repairs made to the crossing.”

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