a passenger on the Mid-Hants Watercress Line's real ale train died under its moving wheels on Saturday. The 62-year-old Southampton man was running along the platform at Alresford to get on board the steam train when he fell. The Real Ale Train (RAT), which covers two round trips between Alton and Alresford, serving speciality beers and pub-type food, was departing when the incident happened. Colin Chambers, chairman of Mid-Hants Railway Ltd which operates the line, said that it was "with regret" that the Mid-Hants Railway Ltd had to report a fatal accident. He stressed that the Mid- Hants Railway placed the health and safety of its thousands of visitors each year as its "very highest priority", and would be investigating the incident "as a matter of urgency" to ensure future safety. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch and Office of Rail Regulation will be conducting an investigation. Mr Chambers thanked all those passengers, both on the RAT and the Watercress Belle (restaurant coach) on Saturday night "for their patience and understanding". "We look forward to welcoming you back in 2008 under happier circumstances," said Mr Chambers. The services, which include the seasonal Santa Specials, are now running normally.