ROAD conditions did not contribute to the Selby rail disaster, which claimed ten lives, a report said last night.

The accident was caused when a vehicle driven by Gary Hart drove off the M62, near Great Heck, in North Yorkshire, and crashed on to the East Coast Main Line, causing a two-train collision, in February last year.

Last night, the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) said that safety measures on the M62 met national standards.

The TRL's work for the report included a detailed examination of the site, investigation of road surface characteristics, including skidding, and consideration of the design and maintenance of the section between junctions 34 and 35 of the motorway.

The report concluded:

* The carriageway and its geometry was in line with provision across the UK and provided no cause for concern;

* It was maintained to an appropriate standard, and the level of winter maintenance in operation at the time of the accident was a reasonable response to the conditions;

* There was no indication of any debris or defects to the carriageway at the time of the accident;

* The carriageway surface was in good condition and met the required standard of skid resistance.

Hart, from Strubby, in Lincolnshire, was convicted last year of causing death by dangerous driving and was jailed for five years.

The jury decided he had fallen asleep at the wheel.