After a number of incidents of young children misusing a level crossing in Devon, Network Rail and the British Transport Police (BTP) have issued a safety warning.

A number of incidents have occurred at Toffles foot crossing in Topsham, with one of the most alarming involving two young boys, around six, playing on the crossing on their bicycles.

While playing, one of the boy’s foot got stuck. Luckily, a member of the public was able to free the boy to that they could move out of the way of an oncoming train which had its emergency breaks applied.

This is an extremely dangerous incident for not only the two boys but for the member of the public who helped to free them.

The crossing is used by around 250 people every day, with two trains every half an hour into the station.

Seven of the incidents which have been reported this year were all near misses where people were distracted or not paying attention to safety instructions.

A number of children have been spotted playing on and around the tracks which has resulted in Network Rail organising an awareness day at the local school and British Transport Police visiting the parents of the two boys to explain the dangers.

Network Rail will also be installing gates at either side of the railway line to remind people to stay alert while crossing.

A safety event will be held on Tuesday 15th November from 10am, with Network Rail staff on hand to talk about safe crossing.

Alison Kramer, Network Rail community safety manager, said: “The railway is a very dangerous place and level crossings are not playgrounds. Incidents of level crossing misuse can lead to life-changing injuries and in the worst-case scenario, loss of life.

“The irresponsible behaviour of these two young boys and of other children deliberately misusing this level crossing is really disappointing when we work so hard to educate parents and young people on how to behave safely when near the railway.

“We have installed extra signage at Toffles foot crossing to remind people that trains travel frequently in both directions and it’s vital that you take extra care and stop, look and listen. If you’re distracted, you won’t notice an approaching train until it’s too late, so make sure you stay alert at all times when near the railway.”

BTP Inspector Rebecca Warren, said: “Deliberately misusing level crossings is extremely dangerous and can have disastrous consequences.

“Unfortunately, we see hundreds of people taking risks on and around the railway every year.

“Have a little patience and wait until it’s safe to cross – it really isn’t worth risking yours and others’ lives to save a few minutes.

“We ask anyone who witnesses such incidents to report it to us by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40.”