THREE train passengers were taken to hospital with minor injuries as a result of a collision at Darlington railway station.

A Northern Rail train collided with the back of a National Express East Coast Mainline service at platform four just before 11am on Saturday.

"An investigation has begun into the incident," a Northern Rail spokesman has said.

He added those taken to hospital were suffering from minor injuries including whiplash. All were discharged during the afternoon.

The collision caused about 45 minutes of delays on the East Coast Mainline.

Northern Rail services were largely unaffected.