A WOMAN killed by a train when she walked onto the tracks at Highbridge station has been named as Lynette Rawles of Mark.

Shocked commuters said Mrs Rawles, 61, of Church Street, got onto the track as a passing train approached and died instantly.

The train came to a halt shortly after the collision. Passengers were moved to the entrance as police and paramedics were first to arrive at about 11am on Friday, July 16.

Police cordoned off the platform and many passengers arriving at the station had to wait for coaches to take them to Weston to continue their journeys. West Somerset coroner Michael Rose confirmed the victim's details on Monday, July 19.

British Transport Police spokesman Brian Price said at the time: "A woman has died after being struck by a train at Highbridge Railway Station. The incident was reported at 11.08am. BTP officers, police and paramedics attended but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is not being treated as suspicious, enquiries are ongoing to establish the woman's identity and the circumstances surrounding the incident."

He added a file will be prepared for the coroner.

The train involved was the 9.25am Plymouth to Aberdeen Crosscountry service and was moved while the passengers were taken to Bristol Temple Meads before changing to alternative services. Several passengers said the staff on board were very professional and tried hard to reassure commuters, although some were too shocked to listen.

Crosscountry Trains would not comment on how the train driver was feeling, but said there is a process for looking after staff in this situation.

First Great Western said 14 trains were half cancelled, which means they only completed part of their intended journey. Eight replacement coach services were in operation between Taunton and Weston.

The line was handed back to Network Rail by just after midday.