THE WOMAN who died near the Bowbridge rail crossing in Stroud is believed to have been hit by a train, police have confirmed today.

The woman, who was in her 50s, has not yet been formally identified but her next of kin have been informed. The death is not being treated as suspicous. 

An inquest is under way to confirm the exact cause of death.

Officers from British Transport Police were called to the incident on the Golden Valley train line shortly before 8.30am on Wednesday, following reports that a body had been discovered.

Paramedics also attended with police officers, however the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

The crossing, which is used by both pedestrians and cyclists is considered high risk due to the limited view of oncoming trains, which often reach speeds of over 50mph on that section of track.

Great Western Railway services were suspended on the line on Wednesday morning while investigations were carried out.

This morning British Transport Police confirmed to the SNJ that the woman was believed to have been hit by a train.