POLICE are appealing for help to identify a man who was killed by a train on the East Lancashire line.

The man, aged about 25, died instantly when he was hit by the Colne to Blackpool South train close to the Lomeshaye Road bridge, Nelson, at 7.40pm on Saturday. So far police have been unable to identify the man, but hope someone may recognise a distinctive T-shirt he was wearing.

It was white with blue lettering which read: "Navy Blue Sailing World Championships, July 27 to August 15, 1958". The 6ft 6in tall man was very slim and had short brown hair and brown eyes and a fresh complexion.

As well as the white T-shirt he had on a blue, grey jumper which may have been hand knitted.

He was also wearing another T-shirt which was a black Levi make with the motif "Gnarly" on it, brown lace-up boots and blue jeans.

The only property he was carrying was a set of five keys on a key ring with a leather fob with the words Arlington Cars, Blackburn on it.

PC Carl Bulcock of British transport police said: "We would like anyone with any information to contact us if they know the identity of this man." Anyone with information can contact 01772 235682.

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