A railway driver had to hit the emergency brakes when a motorist pulled onto the track in front of the train. Dalat Gulzar, 51, ignored signs and flashing lights and pulled out in his black Range Rover. CCTV footage played in court showed witnesses looking on in horror.
Recorder Lloyd-Jones said: "It's obvious the train driver who gave evidence suffered emotionally as a result of what unfolded before him. One of the things he said was this was one of the nearest misses he has had. CCTV from the train made for shocking viewing."
Gulzar, of Mill Lane, Chester, pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving but was convicted by a jury, reports WalesOnline.
Nathan Goldstein said his client was a "hard working family man" who had experienced a "moment of absolute madness" which will have a profound effect upon his life. He said the defendant would possibly have to close his business if he were not able to drive.
Recorder Lloyd-Jones told the defendant he had fallen below the standards of a careful and competent driver, and he could have potentially caused "serious injury or death".
Gulzar was sentenced to a 12-month community order. He was also ordered to carry out 120 hours unpaid work and ordered to pay court costs of £2,400. The defendant was also disqualified from driving for 12 months.
