A man is in hospital after a truck and a train collided at a level crossing in Scone this morning.

Just before 7.15am (Wednesday 29 September), emergency services were called to Turanville Road, following reports a southbound train and a flatbed truck collided at the crossing.

The 29-year-old male driver of the truck was trapped for a short time before being freed by a passer-by.

The man was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics, before being taken by ambulance to Scone Hospital.

He was later airlifted to John Hunter Hospital.

The driver of the train was uninjured.

“We received a report of a truck crossing a rail line that had been struck by a fully-loaded coal train,” a Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service spokesperson said.

“Local paramedics began treatment on the man, who was pulled from his crushed cabin by a bystander before he was conveyed by ambulance to Scone Hospital.

“There, they rendezvoused with the helicopter and our Critical Care Medical Team.

“The man was treated and stabilised for serious chest injuries prior to being airlifted direct to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition for further treatment.”

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District have started inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The rail line will be closed for some time while the train is assessed.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via its online reporting page: nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.