The death of a man at Milliken Park train station in Johnstone has reignited an outcry for better safety measures.

The Johnstone stop has a history of tragedy and the latest example has once again triggered calls for action.

The station sits on a particularly long and straight section of the rail network and trains often hurtle through at high speed.

Anyone standing close to the platform's edge when an engine roars past is well aware of the danger.

Over the years there has been a steady stream of deaths, earning Milliken Park an unwanted reputation.

Speaking in the wake of the latest tragedy which happened at around 7.20am this morning, Johnstone councillor Andy Doig said: "I think this is tragic and extremely sad. Milliken Park is a very well used, popular station.

“I think this reinforces the case for looking at more safety measures. ScotRail really need to look at this a bit more closely."

Train services on the line between Glasgow Central and Kilwinning faced "severe" disruption but services are now running normally although, according to the train operator, some may be subject to "residual delays".

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British Transport Police say they are not treating the death as suspicious and a report is being prepared for the procurator fiscal.

In October 2011, a couple were killed at the same station and just days later another man thought to have been tresspassing also lost his life.

Last year more safety fears were raised when it came to light local youngsters were playing 'chicken' on the tracks near to the station.

The issue was highlighted by Johnstone Community Council (JCC) with members calling for children to be ‘educated’ on the dangers.

Ron Ewing, secretary of JCC, said at the time: “Not only are you putting yourself at risk of being hit by a train but there’s also the electricity matter.

“It’s scary, you don’t get a second chance.”

More to follow

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