RAILWAY bosses have revealed how a potential train crash was averted when a caravan ended up on the tracks at a York level crossing.

The incident happened this morning at the crossing in York Road, Haxby, after the caravan became detached from a towing car.

Network Rail said that the Haxby level crossing was a CCTV level crossing which was monitored by a signaller.

A spokeswoman said that just before 8.45 am, the signaller reported that there was a caravan on the railway line, and all trains were stopped in the area.

She said: "Network Rail attended site, alongside colleagues from North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and worked to remove the caravan.

"Train services have now resumed, however there may be some residual disruption so passengers are advised to check before travelling via National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator.

"We would like to thank all those affected for their patience."

North Yorkshire Police tweeted that officers were at the incident, which had happened near the Parvin restaurant, after a caravan became detached from a car over the railway line.

An officer tweeted that the road had been closed to allow emergency services to attend, with motorists advised to avoid the area while the caravan was removed.

The force tweeted later that the caravan had been towed clear of the road and traffic was now able to pass.

The railway at Haxby is on the York to Scarborough line.