A CRIMINAL investigation is under way into a steam train operator whose engine missed a high-speed service by seconds when it passed a danger signal at Wootton Bassett last month.

The Office Of Rail And Road has found ‘significant weaknesses’ in the safety management systems of West Coast Railways and will now determine if Health and Safety laws have been breached.

Following the incident on March 7, described as the most serious seen on the tracks in recent months, Network Rail imposed a total network ban on WCR, and the ORR are now considering revoking its license completely.

Officials met last Friday, when a consultation began into the revocation of the license, and a decision is expected within 28 days.

A ORR spokesman said: “The rail regulator has notified the West Coast Railway Company that it is reviewing the company’s safety certification - needed to operate trains on the rail network.

“Our initial investigation has found significant weaknesses in the company’s safety management systems.

“ORR is carrying out further assessments to determine whether health and safety laws were breached, and the enforcement action required.”

At 5.25pm on March 7, the 13-carriage Cathedrals Express service, pulled by engine Tangmere, failed to stop at a danger signal on the approach to the double line junction near Wootton Bassett, and missed its mark by 700 yards.

It came to rest at the Wootton Bassett junction just one minute after the previous train had passed.

The Battle Of Britain class steam loco was travelling between Bristol Temple Meads and Southend Victoria, and it is believed it was First Great Western’s 15.28, Swansea to London Paddington high-speed passenger service it narrowly avoided.

Following a meeting on March 30, which Network Rail says exposed inadequate controls and communication systems within the company, a total network ban has been imposed upon West Coast Railways until serious safety concerns are addressed.

This is the first time a total ban has been given to any rail operator.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch establishing the facts of the incident, has said it has seen evidence the driver and fireman of the cab took steps to negate the effects of the automatic braking system.

Network Rail has insisted at least five out of seven shortfalls in its operations must be resolved by May 15 in order for it to consider returning WCR services on its tracks.

WCR has said it will comply fully with the requirements, and hopes to resolve all ongoing issues.

A WCR spokesman said: “West Coast Railways is working hard to reverse the current suspension imposed by Network Rail by fully satisfying their safety concerns.

“Passengers booked to travel with West Coast Railways and on their associated trips should not be concerned.

“If necessary, West Coast Railways will charter the service of another licensed operator using the same traditional carriages and trips will be unaffected."

“West Coast Railways hope this will not be necessary and trust any issues will be resolved to the satisfaction of Network Rail.”

A spokesman for Network Rail said: “This decision has not been taken lightly.

“We have set out a number of actions to address the safety concerns raised and will continue to work with WCR to ensure their services can run safely in the future.”