The driver of a passenger train was killed on Tuesday morning when he hit a crane at a level crossing at full speed en route from Zwolle to Emmen.

The train, which was only carrying 15 people at the time, was derailed in the crash, which happened shortly before 9am. Two people have been taken to hospital and several others were treated for cuts and bruises at the scene.

The mayor of the Overijssel town Dalfsen, where the accident happened, told reporters on Tuesday afternoon the crane operator may have made an error of judgement when he began crossing the track.

Earlier reports said a train had just gone through the level crossing when the crane started to cross and was hit by a train coming in the opposite direction.

Railway officials said it may take several days for the track to reopen. Arriva, which runs the local services, has introduced bus replacements.