Shocking photo shows couple posing for wedding shoot on railway line near Whitby

The pair were caught on CCTV posing on the tracks near Whitby this summer, with a bridesmaid also trespassing - ironically to hold the bride's train.

Their photographer was also standing on the live line.

The shocking image was released by Network Rail to raise public awareness about a craze that has been sweeping the country since lockdown was eased.

Spokeswoman Donna Mitchell said: "We don't know their identities. All I know is it was taken near Whitby, Yorkshire, in July."

The total of 1,239 trespass incidents in September alone was up 17 per cent year-on-year, and the most for that month in the past five years.

Many cases involved people using the railways as a backdrop for social media photographs.

Hollyoaks actor Ellis Hollins was forced to apologise during the same month after posting images on social media from a photoshoot on the railway.

He admitted it was “irresponsible” and he was “careless to take part in such a dangerous situation”.

Allan Spence, of Network Rail, said: “Wedding photos or selfies on the track are just plain stupidity.

“We often warn families at this time of year as kids enjoy school half-term holidays but this time we are appealing to adults in particular.

“Please, make sure you know the rail safety basics and pass that knowledge onto your loved ones. Lead by example and stay off the tracks.”

In August, Network Rail released bizarre images of a father taking photos of his daughter, of primary school age, posing on the tracks on a level crossing on the main Driffield to Bridlington line, where trains reach speeds of up to 70mph. Several groups of cyclists were also caught on CCTV having their photos taken on the line at the same location.