A passenger train sailed through a level crossing with the barriers still raised just seconds after an oblivious motorist drove over the tracks.

Dramatic CCTV from the front cab of the Southeastern service shows the vehicle crossing the railway line in Broad Oak as the train approached.

The train driver slammed on the brakes after realising the barriers had failed, but still hurtled through the crossing 12 seconds after the last vehicle had passed.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has now launched a probe following the near-miss at 10.20am on June 29.

It is expected to release a summary of the incident and details of any action taken within the next month.

A spokesman said: “We have undertaken a preliminary examination into the circumstances surrounding this incident.

“Having assessed the evidence gathered to date, we have decided to publish a safety digest, which will be made available shortly on our website.”