Level crossing closed after youths 'play chicken'

A level crossing where children were spotted "playing chicken" with oncoming trains has been temporarily closed.

The emergency 21-day closure of Sportsfield level crossing in Featherstone followed "a sustained period of serious safety concerns", according to Network Rail.

There had been four instances of "dangerous misuse" in just two weeks, which also included a report of a child being allowed to wander onto the railway, and all the incidents could have resulted in serious injury or death, Network Rail said.

Darren Robertson-Wilson, the organisation's level crossing manager, said: "We'll work closely with the local authority and the community as we assess future options for the crossing."

The crossing was closed on Thursday after Wakefield Council gave its approval to the move.

A Network Rail spokesperson said "options for added safety measures" were being explored before the crossing was reopened, including the installation of warning lights.

The nearest alternative access point for pedestrians was currently at Halfpenny Lane, the spokesperson said.

Robertson-Wilson added: "The safety of people who live near or use the railway is our top priority, and we don't take a decision to seek an emergency level crossing closure lightly.

"We're sorry for any inconvenience this closure might cause for residents, but the behaviour seen at Sportsfield level crossing in recent weeks has been extremely concerning."

New risk assessments would be carried out at both the Sportsfield and Halfpenny Lane crossings, the spokesperson said.

"In addition, Network Rail is stepping up its community and school engagement to reinforce rail safety messages to young people."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.