A GOVERNMENT probe has been launched after two road rail vehicles crashed between Billericay and Wickford.

The road vehicles were being used to replace overhead equipment between the two stations, before they crashed at around 7am, after a night shift.

The two people travelling in the basket of one of the vehicles, were injured, one seriously.

The leading vehicle, a mobile elevated working platform, was being followed by a mobile crane.

No faults have been found with the machinery.

The Government's rail accident investigation team has now launched an official enquiry.

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A spokesman from the rail accident investigation team, said: "At around 7am on May 2, two road rail vehicles collided at Ramsden Bellhouse, while travelling in a worksite between Billericay and Wickford stations in Essex.

"RAIB’s preliminary examination found no evidence of a fault in either of the machines.

"Our investigation will determine the sequence of events that led to the accident and include consideration of: the processes for ensuring that vehicles travel safely within worksites; the processes that govern the hours trackworkers are on duty, the identification of fatigue and how rest periods are managed; and any relevant underlying factors.

"Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.

"We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website."