Trains between Utrecht and Zeist have been cancelled after a train collided with a digger pulling a trailer across a level crossing.

The accident happened at around 6am on Monday in Bunnik, near Utrecht. Police said the digger stopped as it crossed the railway line, giving the Intercity train no time to stop.

The driver suffered minor injuries, while the seven passengers travelling from Utrecht to Arnhem on the early morning express train were uninjured. Alternative transport was arranged to take them to their destinations.

The driver of the digger managed to step out of his cabin before the collision happened.

ProRail spokesman Raymond de Jong said the driver told him his engine had stalled on the line. “He couldn’t go anywhere and was extremely fortunate,” De Jong told RTV Utrecht. “He felt the impact but got out of his vehicle unscathed.”

Train operator NS said all services between Utrecht and Driebergen-Zeist have been cancelled until 5am on Tuesday and a limited bus replacement service has been arranged. Passengers are advised to travel via ‘s-Hertogenbosch if possible.

NS said the vehicle was badly damaged in the crash and is being examined to see if it can be repaired.

Police are investigating how the accident happened, while NS will also investigate whether the driver was warned of a stationary vehicle on the track. No works were taking place on the railway at the time.