AN inquest is expected to open into the death of a man who was dragged by a train 300 yards down railtracks while driving his van over a crossing in Leyland on Monday.

The father and brother of Craig Procter, 22, of Fox Lane, Leyland, spoke of their grief.

His father John said: "This is a very difficult time for us. Craig was a Leyland lad and many people will miss him."

Mr Procter was driving his Vauxhall Astra van down Jane Lane, near Midge Hill, toward Ward's crossing when the van collided with the Ormskirk bound train.

The train pushed it down the track and he suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at 5.35pm.

The guard on the train suffered minor injuries and passengers were treated for shock.

The air ambulance arrived at the scene within six minutes followed by other emergency services.

Ward's crossing is an occupational crossing used by farmers and gardeners and they are responsible for opening and closing the gates.

As a former pupil of Wellfield High School, Yewlands Drive, Leyland, Craig's death has touched the hearts of many people who knew him.

Headteacher at Wellfield, Mr Ainsworth, said: "We are all deeply sorry for any former pupil or person who dies that young -- it's a tragedy. We shall pray for him."

And Mick Lovatt, works director of Preston City Council where Mr Procter was an apprentice joiner and employee until last year, said: "Craig was a popular employee and we've been shocked by his death. Our thoughts and sympathy are with his family at this tragic time."

Darren, Mr Procter's brother, said: "We really need to be on our own at the moment and we thank people for their condolences."