Drivers caught jumping crossings

Motorists have been seen jumping crossings as barriers go down

Dozens of drivers have been caught ignoring the warning lights and queuing over the railway track at level crossings in Shropshire.

Police also saw drivers "jumping" the level crossing barriers as they close.

About 70 drivers were caught breaking traffic laws at county crossings in the last year - 22 of them in Onibury.

Network Rail's Mark Langman, said: "We are very concerned about the way motorists are misusing level crossings in Shropshire."

He added: "It's hard to understand why people take these risks and put themselves and rail passengers in danger just to save a couple of minutes on their journey"

'Covert surveillance'

Police operations at Wem, Harlescott and Onibury led to drivers motorists being caught, with some fined and penalty points added to driving licences.

Insp Derek Cheetham, of British Transport Police, said: "Drivers are not only risking their own and their passengers' lives but also those of the staff and passengers using the trains.

"Officers regularly make high profile patrols to level crossings as well as covert surveillance in an effort to deter and detect offenders."

Emyr Williams, for Arriva Trains Wales, said: "The safety of our customers and local residents who use the railway crossing is paramount, and we must raise awareness of the need to stick to the rules and be vigilant when using the crossing."