PREPARATORY work to remove a train which crashed into a tanker on a level crossing is now underway.

The train collided large sewage tanker carrying “sludge”, at an unmanned level crossing at Little Cornard near Sudbury yesterday at about 5.30pm.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Crowther, of British Transport Police, said: “Following yesterday’s rescue operation, investigators have been gathering physical and technical evidence and this work is now in an advanced stage.

“The recovery phase is well underway and engineers are constructing a platform to support the 130-tonne crane that will remove the first carriage of the train.

“Overhead power lines will also have to be moved.

“This operation will prove a significant engineering challenge and we remain mindful of the impact this incident has had on the local community, who have been very supportive throughout.”

Seven of the 21 injured remain in hospital including a 58-year-old man who sustained life-threatening injuries.

He remains in a serious but stable condition and has been transferred to the Royal London Hospital.

Two other men and four women remained in hospital overnight and so far today one woman has been discharged. The other five are expected to be discharged later today.

Following the collision the train involved remained upright, but the first carriage derailed.

A 38-year-old man from Ely, Cambridgeshire was arrested by Suffolk police on suspicion of dangerous driving following the collision and the lorry was removed from the line shortly after midnight last night.

The man is currently in police custody where he is being questioned.

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call British Transport Police on 0800 405040.