Now hear this, says rapper backing railway headphone safety campaign

The musician, also known as Stephen Manderson, said he had decided to take part in the campaign after hearing of the incident in which a cyclist was nearly hit by a train near Doncaster while wearing headphones.

According to figures compiled by Network Rail, train drivers have reported 19 incidents since 2007 where pedestrians, joggers or cyclists wearing headphones have crossed the railway, oblivious of the dangers.

The new campaign called Lose Your Headphones, features Professor Green in a video which will appear on music websites and be promoted on social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook.

“I never imagined asking people to stop listening to my music but this is about staying safe, so just for a minute I want them to stop,” said the rapper.

“I know it’s very easy to get caught up in a track when you have your headphones on and get distracted from where you are and what’s around you but I’m asking, please, lose your headphones when at a level crossing and pay attention to all the safety warnings. I don’t want anyone to end up on the tracks listening to one of mine.”

Phil Verster, route managing director for Network Rail, said many people did not realise the dangers of not being able to hear an approaching train.

He added: “Headphones are a part of everyday life for many people. However at level crossings it is important to use all your senses to make sure you are staying safe.

“We hope that this campaign will encourage users to take a moment to take off their headphones and give full attention to using the crossing properly.

“Even with safety warnings such as lights and signs at railway crossings, it’s easy to get distracted. With trains travelling at speeds of up to 125mph, that’s a risk that could cost you your life.”

The campaign will run for the next month.