Warning to walkers over level crossing dangers

Network Rail is warning pedestrians to think about their safety when using level crossings in rural areas.

There are concerns about three crossing points on the East Coast Main Line, near Holy Island in Northumberland, which is a popular destination for pilgrimages.

With Easter approaching, the company says about 30% of pedestrians are putting their lives at risk because they do not follow safety guidelines.

Network Rail's Louise Cox said: “Over 300 trains a day pass at speeds of up to 125mph and, at that speed, it would take a driver more than a mile to stop from when they applied their emergency brake."

Three crossings at Fenham Hill, Belford Burn, and Easington see an estimated increase in footfall of about 200% during the Easter period.

The crossings have telephones which link to Network Rail’s signalling centre, so people can find out if any trains are approaching.

But a survey suggests nearly a third of walkers are not using the phones and simply take a chance instead.

Ms Cox added: "While it is good 70% use the crossings correctly, it is a concern that nearly a third are choosing not to use equipment which could save their life."

She said it was imperative to stop, look and listen at all level crossings, but at the three near Holy Island, walkers "must" use the phones for "their own safety".

There are nearly 6,000 level crossings on the UK rail network, but in 2022-23 five people were killed in accidents at such locations.

Network Rail has published safety advice for people crossing rail tracks at pedestrian crossings, external.

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