15 sheep killed by train in Aberdeenshire

Fifteen sheep wandering along a railway line in Stonehaven were killed today when they were struck by a train.

It is believed around 40 sheep escaped from a nearby field through a gap in the fence and were hit by the train, with 15 killed.

Passengers travelling on the Scotrail service from Aberdeen to Edinburgh which ploughed into the sheep were asked to evacuate the train at Abroath.

Services between Edinburgh and Glenrothes were cancelled as a result of the incident but no passengers were injured.

A spokeswoman for Network Rail said: “At 9.50am we received reports that 40 sheep had accessed the line through a gap in the fencing at Carmont.

“Unfortunately 15 sheep had died after being struck by a train.”

“Our maintenance staff responded to the incident to clear the line and carry out a temporary repair on the fence.

“The line was reopened 20 minutes after the incident was reported.”

A spokesperson for Scotrail said: “This morning our train struck a flock of sheep on the line in the Carmont area.

“This service terminated at Arbroath and passengers were able to board alternative services.

“We apologise to customers for any inconvenience caused by this incident.”