Highland railway trespassing incident: Network Rail Scotland slams foolish people taking an illegal shortcut along the Far North Line’s railway tracks in Dingwall, Ross-shire; warns that British Transport Police will prosecute those caught

“Deeply concerned” rail chiefs fear “devastating consequences” if reckless walkers continue to trespass on tracks on a Far North Line railway bridge.

Network Rail has raised the alarm after sharing video footage of multiple people trespassing on the tracks while taking an illegal shortcut over a bridge used by trains in Dingwall.

The footage shows individuals carelessly crossing the River Peffery via the railway bridge between Dingwall Canal South and North level crossings, instead of using the pavement on the nearby Craig Road bridge.

Among those caught on camera are elderly people and dog walkers using the railway as a shortcut to nearby fields and the beach, putting themselves and others at serious risk.

They fear that if this idiotic behaviour continues that it is only a matter of time before tragedy strikes.

And they have warned those embarking on such reckless acts that they will be prosecuted.

Innis Keith, health, safety and environment director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “This footage is deeply concerning, showing people taking significant risks by using a railway bridge to cross the river. It’s extremely dangerous as trains can’t stop quickly or swerve out of the way. A moment’s misjudgement could have devastating consequences.

“Not only is trespassing dangerous, but it’s also illegal. We’re working closely with the British Transport Police to identify anyone trespassing and those caught face prosecution and a hefty fine.”

Network Rail added that trains pass through the area daily, reaching speeds of up to 65mph – that’s fast enough to cover a 50-metre distance in less than two seconds.

The safety appeal comes as a powerful new video was also released by Network Rail, featuring an NHS trauma specialist explaining the catastrophic injuries caused by getting hit by a train.

The video is part of the You vs Train campaign which aims to raise awareness of the risks around the railway and the real-life consequences of trespassing, ultimately changing attitudes and reducing incidents.

Chief Inspector Adam Swallow, British Transport Police, said: “Every year, my emergency services colleagues and I are faced with the awful consequences of preventable railway accidents. And we don’t just respond, we remember too. Behind every statistic is a real person - a life needlessly lost or irreversibly changed and a family left devastated.

“As the summer holidays begin and more people are out and about, including teenagers and younger children, we’re asking everyone to treat the railway with the seriousness and respect it demands; stay alert, avoid distractions, and never cross except at designated points. It could save your life, or someone else’s.

“I’d encourage people to save 61016 into their phones and text us if they need us. In an emergency always dial 999.”

In Dingwall, Network Rail continues to work with Highland Council to explore the possibility of two wooden footbridges either side of the existing railway bridge. This would provide an alternative route for pedestrians, and the community will be kept informed as plans progress.

Innis Keith added: “We know people are often just trying to save time or take what seems like the easiest route. But using the railway bridge as a shortcut is incredibly dangerous and against the law. We’re asking everyone to think twice and choose safety instead. No shortcut is worth risking your life.”

For more information on railway safety and to view the new film, visit http://www.youvstrain.co.uk.