Children Misuse West Sussex Railway Crossing in Dangerous Stunt Spree
FERAL kids have forced Network Rail to shut down the Clappers Lane level crossing in Ferring, West Sussex, after a spate of reckless behaviour caught on CCTV set alarm bells ringing.
Disturbing CCTV Reveals Risky Stunts on Tracks
Shocking footage shows youngsters loitering on the railway line, with one even caught urinating on the tracks where trains thunder past at up to 70mph. The daring antics include running across tracks moments before trains, cyclists dodging near misses, and pedestrians narrowly escaping by just seconds.
- 14 Jan: Signaller spots person sprinting across tracks just before a train zooms past.
- 13 Jan: Cyclist narrowly avoids being hit while crossing.
- 12 Jan: Pedestrian crosses mere seconds ahead of an approaching train.
- 6 Jan: Person walks directly in front of a moving train, seemingly oblivious to danger.
Safety Crackdown: Crossing Closed and More Measures Planned
Despite extra signs, cameras, and outreach to local schools, Network Rail and West Sussex County Council have slammed the brakes on the crossing for now. They’re considering miniature stop lights to warn pedestrians of oncoming trains but warn technology isn’t a silver bullet.
“Level crossings are not playgrounds,” said Stuart Tautz, Network Rail’s Operations Risk Advisor. “The railway is a dangerous environment. One wrong step can be fatal – especially with the electric third rail that’s live and lethal at all times.”
Lucy McAuliffe, Sussex Route Director for Network Rail, added: “This isn’t just one-off behaviour – it’s a worrying pattern involving children. Cameras can record, but they don’t stop it in real time. Education and parental awareness are vital.”
British Transport Police Keep a Close Watch
The clampdown follows a new public safety campaign revealing over 55% of South East residents don’t realise the full danger posed by electrified rail lines. British Transport Police are now on high alert, monitoring the situation closely to prevent any tragic accidents.
