Video: CCTV captures misuse of West Berkshire level crossing

Footage from a CCTV camera at Calcot Mill level crossing in West Berkshire shows people posing for photographs on the track.

The camera captured two cyclists entering the level crossing and one taking a photograph of the other. The crossing is on a stretch of railway where one hundred and thirty trains pass through each day, travelling at up to 100mph.

Network Rail has released the footage, captured in Holybrook Linear Park, as it becomes increasingly concerned about the rising frequency of trespass incidents on its Western route, which runs from Penzance to London Paddington.

Recent increases in trespass have been reported mainly in Gloucester, Cheltenham, Trowbridge, Bridgwater, Plymouth and in and around Bristol, having taken place mostly near stations and on level and foot crossings. Many of the reported incidents have involved children and young people, and several have been reported to the British Transport Police (BTP).

Earlier this year, a train driver took to social media to warn of the dangers after children ran across Calcot Mill crossing as his train approached it.

Network Rail has put measures in place to deter dangerous conduct, including installing extra signage and cameras, and hosting educational events.

It points out the risks that trespassers expose themselves to, including both being struck by a train and being struck by 25,000 volts of electricity jumping from overhead lines. The risk of serious injury, or even death, is heightened by fast-moving trains, slippery lineside conditions and unsteady ground.

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 life- changing injuries and in the worst-case 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.”

Richard Pedley, Network Rail's Western route level crossing manager, said: “The level crossing at Calcot Mill is on a section of very high-speed line with around 130 trains per day. It is crucial that the level crossing is only used as a means of getting across the railway, and under no circumstances should people loiter or play on crossings and put their lives at risk.”

Mark Cleland, British Transport Police superintendent for Western, said: “Trespassing on the railway is not only illegal but it can result in life-changing injuries or even death. Electrified lines and trains which travel at speeds of up to 125mph, often silently, make the railway an extremely dangerous place to be.  I would urge parents and carers to have conversations with their loved ones about these dangers.

“Where we know trespass is a concern, we will increase our patrols, looking proactively for those breaking the law.  I would urge any member of the public who witnesses anyone trespassing to let us know by texting or calling us on 61016.  In an emergency, always dial 999.”