Stay off tracks alert issued as risk-taking filmed

Railway officials have hit out at the "blatant disregard for safety" shown by people who trespass at a foot crossing in East Sussex.

Several incidents of people walking on the tracks or playing on the foot crossing in Mill Lane, Rye, have been reported to British Transport Police this year.

CCTV footage shows one instance of a person standing on the crossing to take a photograph of another person posing on the tracks.

James Neeson, Network Rail level crossing manager, urged people to remember that anyone who trespasses on the railway is at risk of being killed.

“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," he said.

Mr Neeson said: "A photo for social media is never worth the risk of putting yourself in this extremely dangerous situation.

"We sincerely urge people to stay off the tracks and ensure they understand the risks of trespassing."

The crossing in Rye is on a stretch of track used by up to 40 trains a day, travelling at about 60mph (95km/h).

As well as the risk of being struck by a train, the electrified "third rail" which powers the trains on other parts of the network adds further danger to anyone who engages in this behaviour, a Network Rail spokesperson says.

Fast-moving trains, slippery lineside conditions and unsteady ground combine to create a serious risk of devastating life-changing injuries, or loss of life, they said.

Ch Insp Adam Swallow, of British Transport Police, said: “Where we know trespass is a concern, we will increase our patrols, looking proactively for those breaking the law."

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.