Railway crossing offenders targeted

British Transport Police officers and Network Rail workers visited Starbeck level crossing in Knaresborough this week in the first of a series of days targeting the site after an increases in offences.

In September, nearly double the number of offences of motorists and pedestrians using the crossing improperly were reported.

Pc Craig Virco, of British Transport Police, said: "We are working closely with Network Rail in the area to improve knowledge and, where necessary, to take action against those who continue to misuse crossings.

"Incredibly, some people are still putting their lives on the line by ignoring warning lights and sirens and trying to dash through crossings when trains are approaching.

"This is hugely irresponsible and dangerous and we will not hesitate to take action against anyone caught doing so."

About 70 trains travel through Starbeck level crossing every day as well as thousand of vehicles and pedestrians.

Last year, 13 people were killed at level crossings in Britain.