Onboard driver CCTV has recorded the moment a man narrowly missed being hit by a West Coast main line train.

Network Rail and Avanti West Coast have released video of the near miss at a footpath level crossing near Runcorn, hoping it will act as a safety warning to others.

Senior railway staff have described the incident, at 10:43am on Wednesday 18 January, as one of the closest near misses they’ve seen.

The entrance to the footpath crossing displays a red warning light when it is unsafe to cross. However, the man ignored this, and came within feet of a high-speed train before the London Euston to Glasgow service was forced to come to an emergency stop.

The maximum speed for trains on this section of line is 125mph.

After releasing the video, Network Rail reissued its guidance on how to use level crossings safely as a pedestrian:

• Concentrate – it’s easy to get distracted, especially by phones, music and conversation.
• Always follow signs and instructions displayed at level crossings
• Check both ways before crossing – if there is a train coming, don’t cross.
• Understand the warnings (lights, barriers, alarms). Visit level crossings for pedestrians to find out more.
• Cross quickly, keeping children close and dogs on a lead.

Network Rail is urging people to read its information and resources on how to use all types of level crossings safely, and its ‘Beware the Bubble’ safety campaign.

Lucy Jordan, Network Rail’s North West head of safety, said: “When I see footage like this it always make my heart stop. The difference of just a few seconds could have led to tragedy for this man and I can’t downplay the danger he was in.

“It’s important for Network Rail to share this video as a strong warning to others and to remind them of our level crossing rules. No matter how well you think you know a crossing, all users must obey the signage in place and if there are warning lights, always stop when they display red, it just isn’t worth the risk.”

Dave Whitehouse, Avanti West Coast safety and security director, said: “This footage serves as a stark reminder to be aware of your surroundings near the railways whether it’s at a level crossing or at a station. Although the man involved escaped serious injury, this shows it’s only takes a split second to make the wrong decision for it to end in tragedy.”