A MAN who died this week when his car was struck by a train at a level crossing was a railway company employee, it has been claimed.

British Transport Police have also linked three incidents to the death of the man on the level crossing that led to cancellations and delays for commuters.

A number of trains to and from Taunton were affected by the incident in Exeter on Thursday, when all lines between Exeter St Davids and Tiverton Parkway were closed.

The man was killed at Stoke Canon, between the two stations, Great Western Railway (GWR) said.

The 23-year-old from Exeter - named as Matt on floral tributes - had been in contact with British Transport Police before his death.

The case has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

The victim was a railway employee, according to the BBC.

A spokesman for the British Transport Police said: "Officers were called to the railway close to Stoke Canon in Exeter after reports a vehicle was struck by a train at a level crossing.

''Officers from British Transport Police attended alongside paramedics from the South Western Ambulance Service. However a person was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

"Initial enquiries have identified the person as a 23-year-old man from Exeter, his family have been informed.

''The man's death is not currently being treated as suspicious, however officers continue to make enquiries to establish the full circumstances leading to the vehicle and man being struck by a train.

"Following this incident, three further incidents were brought to the attention of officers within the proximity of Stoke Canon.

''This includes a train striking objects at Newton St Cyres and at Crannaford, as well as a line side fire at Eggesford.

''All four incidents are being treated as linked, although at this time officers are not tracing anyone else in connection.

"The Rail Accident Investigation Branch have been notified. Furthermore, the Independent Office for Police Conduct have been informed."

British Transport Police says the death is not being treated as suspicious, but it was investigating reports of trains striking objects and a line-side fire which appeared to be linked.

GWR said it was working with police to identify the full circumstances.

If you have been affected by this article, you can call Taunton Samaritans on 01823-288998, the national freephone 116123, e-mail jo@samaritans.org or visit 16 Wood Street, Taunton, 9am to 9pm.

Mind in Taunton and West Somerset’s helpline can be reached from Tuesday to Sunday, 8pm-11pm on 01823-276 892.

Cruse Bereavement Care can be reached on 0808-8081677.