RIBBLE Valley MP Nigel Evans today said railway companies must redouble their efforts to make the train network safe in the wake of the latest disaster.

At least 13 people were killed and more than 70 injured after a Land Rover came off the M62 and went through a crash barrier on to the railway line.

A passenger train hit the vehicle then collided with a freight train near Selby.

He said: "This crash was tragic, especially in the light of the Hatfield disaster. "The railway companies must ensure that railways are much safer.

"People must have reassurance that they are going to be safe when using public transport."

But David Butterworth, member of railway watchdog body the Rail Passengers Committee, said the crash appeared to be outside the railway industry's control.

He said: "Every effort is made by the railway industry to maintain safety standards.

"It is up to the Highways Agency to explain how it was possible for a vehicle to end up on the line in such circumstances."

Mr Butterworth, of Clitheroe, who is also a member of the Ribble Valley rail passengers' pressure group, said passengers could still feel confident when travelling by train.

He said: "Although we have had a number of crashes in the last 12 months, travel by train is essentially very safe."