Railway crossing shut to 'prevent tragedy'

A six-month closure order has been passed for a railway crossing after people were filmed showing "disregard for safety" on the tracks.

The Wilthorpe footpath in Barnsley was temporarily shut by emergency order in May after youths were caught on CCTV lying down on the tracks for photos and holding the gate shut to trap people on the line.

Andy Cunningham, Network Rail crossing manager, said he was looking to "prevent a possible tragedy" after seeing footage of the incidents, which involved children and adults.

"The shocking misuse and disregard for safety is the worst I've ever seen, with people risking their own and others' lives," he said.

Fifteen separate incidents were recorded at the site in two months, which include people placing objects on the track and lying down on the live rail.

The six-month footpath closure has now been approved by Barnsley Council, following two three-week emergency closure orders.

"We have received messages from residents supporting our decision, recognising that this was entirely the right thing to do for the safety of the community," Mr Cunningham added.

British Transport Police have visited local schools to raise awareness about staying safe around railways, Network Rail said.

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