A MAN killed by a train near Horwich Parkway has been named as Paul Martin.

The 46-year-old, from Wigan, was pronounced dead at the scene at 11.50am on Sunday.

He had been hit by the 11.30am Virgin Trains service travelling between Preston and Birmingham New Street.

It is not clear why Mr Martin was on the tracks, but police have confirmed his death is not being treated as suspicious and it has been reported to the coroner.

Mr Martin’s next of kin have been notified of his death.

A British Transport Police (BTP) spokesman said: “BTP officers were called to Horwich Parkway station on Sunday following a report of a man being struck by a train.

“BTP and officers from Lancashire Police attended the incident, which was reported to BTP at 11.51am and is currently being treated as non-suspicious.

“Medics from North West Ambulance Service also attended but the man, believed to be in his 40s and from Wigan, was pronounced dead at the scene. A file will be prepared for the coroner.”

The incident caused delays for passengers and closed Horwich Parkway station for just over an hour.

A spokesman for nearby Middlebrook retail park said: “It is sad news and it is not a thing you want happening before Christmas. Our thoughts are with the man’s family.”