NETWORK Rail are warning of the dangers of misusing railway level crossings, after shocking footage of a youngster throwing himself under safety barriers in Blakedown was released.

The irresponsible youth is seen darting across Blakedown level crossing after the warning lights and sounds begin and the safety barriers are lowering.

He is then seen to dive under the far side barrier at the last minute.

The crossing in Station Drive is regularly misused and earlier in the year, Network Rail issued information in the area on how to use the crossing correctly after repeated incidents of misuse.

Examples included vehicles weaving around and hitting the barriers, and pedestrians jumping the barriers after they were lowered.

Ben Parish, route level crossing manager for Network Rail, said: "This selfish individual has little respect for his own safety or the safety of others by doing this irresponsible act.

"Level crossing barriers and warning lights are there to help road users, pedestrians and railway users stay safe.

"Misusing crossings in this way could result in serious injury or worse."

Mr Parish added: "I can't emphasis strongly enough the importance of safe and sensible level crossing use.

"If anyone has any concerns about a level crossing, I would urge them to contact us immediately."

Figures from Network Rail reveal that young people are more likely to have a near miss at a level crossing during the summer - light nights, coupled with the summer holidays, spell extra danger with August and early September seeing near misses at level crossing rise.

To report incidents like this or any other railway-related crime, call Network on 03457 114141.