Dicing with death at level crossing

Footage of a woman recklessly pushing a pram across a railway crossing just moments before a train passes was released by Network Rail yesterday.

The video footage taken near Wareham station in Dorset shows the woman running across the tracks while other pedestrians wait patiently for the train to pass.

The images have been released as Network Rail launches its autumn campaign Don't Run The Risk to encourage people to act with care at level crossings.

So far this year 12 people have died at crossings, with five of these in September alone.

Iain Coucher, Network Rail chief executive officer, said: "The rules around level crossings are clear and simple. When the lights flash or the barriers are down, don't cross, a train is approaching.

"Signs asking users to stop, look and listen or reminding you to contact the signaller before crossing are clear and must be followed.

"We understand that people have busy lives and waiting can be frustrating. Our campaign asks 'would it kill you to wait?' because sadly we know that not waiting can result in tragedy and there's no excuse for that."