A freight train derailed on the West Highland line after hitting a boulder which had come down in a landslide caused by heavy rain, according to investigations.

The 24-wagon train came off the tracks near Tulloch on June 28, obstructing the line between Crianlarich and Fort William.

It took Network Rail almost two weeks to clear the line and fix damage caused by the accident.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) have released the results of a preliminary examination into the incident.

They said heavy rain caused the landslide which derailed the train.

The report read: "To date, it has been concluded that the boulder is likely to have become dislodged during a landslide originating on a natural slope outside the railway. Heavy rain in the period preceding the accident is thought to be a factor."

The locomotive and first five wagons, which were carrying aluminium powder, came off the rails when the train hit a boulder at around 7pm.

More than 100 yards of railway track had to be renewed as part of the operation.

Network Rail have also stabilised the slope, installed rock netting and removed tonnes of material from the railway line.

Related articles

• Railway line to open two weeks after freight train derailed in landslide
• Highland railway to be shut for over a week after landslide and derailment

People who read this story also read

• Railway line to open two weeks after freight train derailed in landslide
• Highland railway to be shut for over a week after landslide and derailment
• Hillwalker found dead after search operation by mountain rescue team
• Hillwalker found dead near peak of mountain is named by police
• No probe into death of family in car at level crossing train crash