Warning as teenagers caught on camera performing handstands on busy railway track
Two teenagers have been caught on camera performing handstands on a busy railway track in Nottinghamshire despite the incredible danger.
The shocking footage also shows another youngster lying on the track - where trains speed past at 80mph.
CCTV has been released by Network Rail in a bid to warn youngsters to stay away from railways as trains frequently travel on the line to and from Nottingham at high speeds.
Network Rail has branded the actions as a "serious misuse of the level crossing" in Attenborough in Broxtowe.
Other dangerous behaviours can also be seen, including people stopping to sit on the crossing for photos.
Network Rail has said many of the incidents it caught on camera could have resulted in life changing, or even fatal, results.
Gary Walsh, who is the Route Director for Network Rail's East Midlands route, said: "This behaviour at Nature Reserve level crossing is absolutely shocking.
"The railway is not a photo opportunity and it is never safe to stop or hang around on the tracks."
Mr Walsh said: "The two girls doing handstands are completely oblivious to the dangers they are putting themselves in.
"This incident could have ended in tragic consequences for them, as well as their friends and family."
Local councils and the British Transport Police are now working to help encourage the safe use of level crossings.
They want to remind people that trains cannot stop quickly or swerve out of the way, so it is vital that anyone using a level crossing follows the guidance to cross quickly and safely.
How to check a level crossing is safe:
Concentrate - it's easy to get distracted, especially by phones, music and conversation
Stop, look and listen. Follow signs and instructions
Check both ways before crossing - if there is a train coming, don't cross
Understand the warnings (signs, lights, barriers, alarms)
Network Rail recorded the crossing was used more than 5,400 times over a nine day period.
During that time:
The "vulnerable" category includes those who were wearing headphones, potentially reducing their ability to concentrate and their ability to hear approaching trains.
A range of activities have already taken place in the community to help people understand the dangers of level crossings.
Another event is taking place at Attenborough Nature Reserve on Friday December 17 and more awareness days are planned in the New Year.