Warning after CCTV is released showing families with children taking selfies on rail track at level crossing

Children sit on rails while their mother takes a photo. Credit: Network Rail

Network Rail has issued a warning after CCTV showed families with children taking selfies while sitting on rail tracks at a level crossing.

Families with children were caught on camera taking selfies, talking on the phone while walking along the line and even sitting down to pose for pictures on the track

Recorded on August 30 at Matlock Bath station in Derbyshire, the video footage shows one group with a toddler chatting and taking photos for more than eight minutes on the railway.

Network Rail issued a warning urging people to pay more respect to the railway and to use crossings safely before a serious incident happens.

A large group of people spent eight minutes on the track taking photos. Credit: Network Rail

Inspector Eddie Carlin from British Transport Police said the railway is a "dangerous" environment.

Network Rail advice on level crossings:

  • Stop, Look and Listen for a train before opening the gate. If there is one coming then wait until it is has passed and you are sure there isn’t a second one approaching

  • Once sure the track is clear, open the gate and walk across the track to the other side – without rushing. Make sure the gate is closed behind you.

  • If crossing in a large group, make sure there is enough time and space for everyone to cross safely. Always keep dogs on a lead when near the railway.

Matlock Bath has a foot crossing with a Stop, Look and Listen sign at the crossing gate.

More than 30 trains per day pass by and the crossing is used by over 500 pedestrians and cyclists.