Safety additions sought after railway death

Campaigners say people cannot hear trains approach

Residents in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, have gathered 500 signatures on a petition to have a safety gate and flashing lights installed at a busy railway crossing.

The effort began after pensioner Joan Sage, 81, was killed in September while walking her dog.

Mrs Sage died from multiple injuries after being hit by a Stansted Express train bound for London.

Her neighbours at Cannons Close will present the petition to Railtrack, councillors, MP Mark Prisk, and Transport Minister Alastair Darling.

It is a very ancient right of way, and we don't want it closed - we want it made safe

Margot Hirst, rail safety campaigner

Mrs Sage's neighbours want flashing lights to let pedestrians know a train is coming, and a gate to stop toddlers and dogs.

Rail safety campaigner Mrs Margot Hirst said residents had been agitating for safety improvements for a long time.

"Since Mrs Sage has been killed, trains are giving a very loud blast and do go slower when they approach, but they do go too fast."

Best route

There are other ways to walk to town, Mrs Hirst said, but the other track crossing is not used by most pedestrians.

She said that crossing is a mile and a half away and has steps, making it unmanageable for people with pushchairs and the elderly.

In the long term, the campaigners want a ramp crossing for pedestrians who currently walk on the actual lines at the crossing where Mrs Sage was hit.

The action group is disappointed the only safety measure Railtrack added at the crossing were metal spikes designed to discourage people from walking on the track.

No action

Over the past two years, campaigners have received a number of letters promising improvements.

The group will now send their petition to state-backed Network Rail, which is taking over Railtrack.

An inquest into Mrs Sage's death has been opened by Hertfordshire coroner Alan Lawson.