The two railway workers who died after being struck by a train in South Wales were wearing ear defenders and could not hear it approaching, British Transport police said. 

The two men – a 58-year-old man from North Connelly and a 64-year-old from Kenfig Hill – were struck by a passenger train near Port Talbot has been working on tracks at Margam.

A third person, who was also working on the track, was treated for shock but was uninjured in the incident. 

Superintendent Andy Morgan of British Transport Police said: “Our thoughts are with their families as they come to terms with this tragic news.”

Morgan said: “The initial stages of the investigation suggest that the two men who died had been wearing ear defenders at the time, tragically, could not hear a passenger train approaching.” 

He said a number of officers remain in the area and BTP is continuing to work alongside the Rail Accident Investigation Branch to understand the full circumstances of what happened in the moments before this “incredibly sad, fatal collision”.

“The two men’s families have been both informed and we will be providing them with as much help and support as possible through this undoubtedly difficult and distressing time,” he said.

“Likewise, we will make sure those who witnessed this traumatic incident, both at the scene and on board the striking train, receive the necessary support they require.”

He added his thanks to thank those on board the train for their “patience and understanding” while officers and colleagues from Wales Ambulance Service responded to the incident. 

Earlier Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said he would ensure “lessons are learned” following the incident.  

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