Just as an aside to this tragic incident, there is a foot crossing in the Benton/Forest Hall area which crosses The Blyth and Tyne. It's at the end of a lovely grassy field which is popular with dog walkers. One day I had the three collies out and decided to head for the Rising Sun Country Park with them. They were off the lead until I reached the underpass for the Metro line then they were back on (I'd been that way before). At the time the crossing was un-gated so I made them sit until I thought it was safe to cross. Imagine my surprise as a Class 66 drifted round the curve in front of us with no noise or warning. It made me jump, I'll tell you.
The crossing is now gated, although I can't remember if it has a telephone or other safety device.
I'm pretty railway savvy but this shows how easy it is to be taken by surprise.
My thoughts to all involved with this incident.
