THIS is the shocking moment that a lorry smashed through a closing level crossing barrier.

The HGV, which appears to be part of Preston Brook-based Mammoet Ferry Transport’s fleet, completely tore off the gate during the crash near Manningtree in Essex last Friday.

Barriers on both sides of the railway line had to be repaired as a result, closing the road for nearly four hours.

Disruption was also caused to trains in the area while the damage was fixed.

Network Rail posted a video of the incident to Twitter, urging drivers to take care at level crossings and warning that ‘when the lights are flashing you should stop’.

Mammoet has not responded to a request for comment.