It's behind you! Watch as trainspotter cheats death by inches

British Transport Police officers said they were keen to speak to the man involved in order to offer "words of advice" following the incident at Thurston, Suffolk, last Saturday.

Footage showed that a train travelling at about 70mph almost hit the trainspotter, said a spokesman.

"A number of steam train enthusiasts attended the rural station to watch the Oliver Cromwell pass through," he added.

"Footage shows the man on the crossing facing towards the steam train and filming it with a camcorder.

"A train travelling from the opposite direction then passes through at an estimated 70mph, almost clipping the man and causing a rush of air that unsteadies him on his feet."

Inspector Ian Smart said: "Had this man been standing just a few inches closer to the track, I am in no doubt that he would have either been killed or extremely badly injured."

"We're not out to spoil anyone's fun or enjoyment of what is part of our national heritage but it is absolutely vital that people do not take risks that endanger their lives or the lives of others.

"The last thing we want to see is someone paying the ultimate price just to get a close-up photo or video of a steam train."

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