A TRAIN driver who did not switch on his cab radio and then overrode a key safety system after passing a signal at red has been given a three month jail sentence, suspended for 12 months.

Stevenage magistrates were told that Scott Walford had been employed by First Capital Connect and was driving the 20.40 service from Cambridge to London King's Cross on 8 October last year.

He had not set up his Cab Secure Radio before leaving Cambridge, which meant that signallers could not get in touch with him. He then passed a red signal at Hitchin, triggering a 'trip' in the standard Train Protection Warning System, which brings the train to a stand automatically.

However, Mr Walford reset the TPWS and continued without first seeking the authorisation which a driver must have after causing a TPWS 'trip', for any reason. He was suspended after the incident and no longer works as a train driver.

A prosecution under the Health and Safety Act was brought by the Office of Rail Regulation. The ORR said that its investigation found that Mr Walford had failed to take reasonable care of the safety of himself, passengers and other persons who might have been affected by his actions. It commented: 'Deliberate decisions to avoid safety procedures following a signal passed at danger, such as the choices made by Mr Walford, are rare but carry potential catastrophic consequences.'

Mr Walford pleaded guilty to the charge, and in addition to the suspended sentence was also fined £500.

ORR principal safety inspector Donald Wilson said: "Train drivers hold a position of great responsibility for safety on our railways. They must comply with health and safety law, and work in accordance with their licence and training.

“Mr Walford fell short of these standards, and, in doing so, showed a serious disregard for the safety of his passengers. His actions – ignoring warning signals and systems - could have led to a potentially catastrophic incident. He put his life, and the lives of others, at risk. This kind of incident is very rare, but where serious failings are found, those at fault will be held to account by the rail regulator."