“Railways, don’t risk it” - plea

That is the message from British Transport Police as they launch extra patrols for this week’s Operation Look.

Insp Pete Kooper said: “All too often people get into the habit of taking risks at crossings. Our message is simple: use crossings safely.

“It may be tempting to jump a light to shave a minute or two off your journey, but every time you do, you endanger your life and the lives of other road and rail users.

“Fail to obey the signals and you may also end up with a driving ban or a criminal record. “Is it really worth the risk?”

Between April 2014 and January 2015, 400 motorists were charged or summonsed for crossing misuse.

A further 357 received fixed penalty notices, 16 were cautioned and 568 were sent on driver awareness courses.

Mobile safety vehicles will be placed at crossings to monitor vehicles as part of Operation Look.