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Network Rail must pay a £4 million fine for its failings in the fatal Paddington rail crash of 1999.

The penalty, received in today's sentencing hearing at Blackfriars crown court, is the "unlimited fine" handed down after Britain's rail operator admitted major health and safety failings. Network Rail must pay an additional £225,000 in costs.

In total 31 people died in October 5th 1999 when a Thames train, having gone through a red light at Ladbroke Grove, collided with an oncoming First Great Western express after leaving Paddington station. Over 400 were injured in the crash.

Prosecutors blamed the "senseless and unnecessary" accident as being caused by "cultural" failings going all the way to the top of the now defunct Railtrack organisation, which Network Rail has since replaced.

But today's fine pales in comparison with the £22 million fine paid by Thames Trains four years ago for its role in the collision.

Network Rail reiterated its apology for its role in the accident and said it accepted the fine imposed by the court.

"The events of Ladbroke Grove will always be remembered and our thoughts must remain with the families and friends of the 31 people who lost their lives on that tragic day and with those who were injured," a statement said.

It added its train protection warning system, introduced since the crash, would prevent similar incidents from occurring again.

"The huge changes that have been made to the railway industry since Ladbroke Grove have led to the railways becoming the safest form of transport. It's our job to continue this work and strive for further safety improvements."