Police reveal crossing offences

Checkpoints will also be set up at two Highland crossings

A total of 101 railway level crossing offences were committed in the Highlands last year, according to British Transport Police.

The figure comes as the force prepares to target one specific group of users.

For the first time, BTP will visit a series of farmers markets and livestock auctions to give advice on the proper use of the sites.

Agricultural workers are among the biggest users of crossings located on private land.

The initiative is part of a European Level Crossing Awareness Day, and BTP has joined forces with Network Rail, ScotRail and rail industry body the Office of Rail Regulation.

Pc Paul Mellis, who is co-ordinating the farmers market visits, said: "In the Highlands most User Worked Crossings are located in a rural location and normally situated on farm land used by farmers and other farm workers.

"So it seemed sensible to target the people who use them on every day as they go about their work.

"User Worked Crossings, as they are called, are often situated on private land and operated by the landowner.

"We will be visiting the owners of these crossings to reiterate their responsibilities when using the crossing."

Checkpoints will also be set up at Garve and Dingwall level crossings where passing drivers will be stopped and issued with information leaflets.