Cyclists pose for pics at level crossing
A CCTV camera at Calcot Mill level crossing in West Berkshire recently captured footage of people trespassing on the railway to pose for photographs on the track.
The footage shows two cyclists entering the level crossing so that one of them can take a picture of the other on a stretch of the railway where 130 trains a day pass through at up to 100mph.
The release of the footage captured in Holybrook Linear Park follows a concerning rise in the number of trespass incidents across Network Rail’s Western route, which runs from Penzance to London Paddington.
Many of the reports have involved children and young people.
Several incidents of people walking on the tracks in these areas or playing on foot crossings have been reported to British Transport Police (BTP).
As well as the risk of being struck by a train, electrification on parts of the route adds further danger to anyone who engages in this behaviour, as 25,000 volts of electricity can jump from overhead lines.
Andy Phillips, Network Rail programme manager for route crime, said: “Incidents of trespass on the railway cause issues for everyone using the network, where an individual could sustain lifechanging injuries and in the worstcase scenario, loss of life.
“A photo for social media is never worth the risk of putting yourself in this extremely dangerous situation.
“It is disappointing to see people blatantly disregarding their own and others’ safety.
“We sincerely urge people to stay off the tracks and ensure they understand the risks of trespassing.
“Anyone who witnesses any trespass incidents is encouraged to report what they’ve seen to BTP via the text service on 61016.”