VILLAGERS campaigning for safety improvements to a level crossing where an elderly woman lost her life a year ago today, have welcomed a string of recommendations made in a report into her death.

Margaret Evans, 80, of St John’s Road, Tackley, died after being hit by a train at the Tackley level crossing. She had been trying to cross the tracks to catch a train to Oxford.

A report from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch published yesterday recommended installing a stop light warning system, marking the point where passengers looked out for oncoming trains more clearly, and improving visibility.

It lamented that plans to put in a subway or footbridge were turned down by West Oxfordshire District Council, at a time when it was cost effective to construct one.

Plans for a subway were approved in 2003 but it has still not been constructed.

Father Robin Gibbons, Tackley Parish Council’s rail representative, said: “All of these things would be very positively received because they take into account our needs, as passengers and pedestrians.”

Frances Maxwell, 64, a former neighbour of Mrs Evans, said many villagers were too afraid to cross the line.

She said: “A stop light would be great because even if you take it in your own hands to cross, you would be aware something is happening.”

In November a jury ruled that Mrs Evans’ death was accidental. Yesterday’s report said she had either mistook the train for the stopping train she intended to catch, or was unaware of the approaching train until she started crossing. It also found the view was restricted due to a poorly sited fence.

It said the point where people were expected to stop and look for trains was in the wrong place, making it a contributory factor.

A Network Rail spokesperson said the company would review the findings, adding: “The community is aware of Network Rail’s long-held desire to replace the crossing, but unfortunately our alternatives did not meet with the necessary approval of the local authority at the time.”

West Oxfordshire District Council strategic director Andrew Tucker said: “The council wishes to emphasise that it properly carried out its responsibilities as the local planning authority”

fbardsley@oxfordmail.co.uk