Moor Bridge deaths: Network Rail apology 'too late'

The families of three people who were killed at the same level crossing in Nottinghamshire say an apology by Network Rail is "too late".

Jean Hoggart, 56, and her seven-year-old grandson Mikey were hit by a train near Moor Bridge in 2008. Lindsey Inger, 13, died there in 2012.

The company has offered a "full and unreserved apology" to families bereaved by level crossing accidents.

Family members said the crossing should have been made safe a long time ago.

"Network Rail just don't care, they don't care about anybody," said Laurence Hoggart, who lost his wife at Moor Bridge.

"They've not been interested in me, my family, my bereavement, what I've been through with losing my wife and grandson."

Mr Hoggart, who gave evidence to the House of Commons transport committee, said he had suggested a number of measures, including a footbridge over the rail lines, that would have made the crossing safer following the deaths of his wife and grandson.

"[Lyndsey Inger's death] could have been prevented very easily," he added.

Marlene Starling, Lyndsey's stepmother, who successfully campaigned to get a bridge built after her daughter was hit by a tram in November 2012, agreed with Mr Hoggart.

"[Network Rail] couldn't be bothered to do anything... they just didn't care," she said.

"We had to have a big meeting and campaign to get that bridge put there and we wouldn't stop."

MPs have published a report heavily critical of the way Network Rail had handled tragedies in the past.

Network Rail's chief executive Mark Carne offered a "full and unreserved apology" to families bereaved by level crossing accidents.

Mr Hoggart and Mrs Starling said they accepted the apology but both agreed it had come too late.