SHOCKING images released by Network Rail show two people using a live railway line for a photoshoot.

The pictures, alongside other images, have been issued by the railway company to warn people about the dangers of misusing level crossings.

All the examples were on lines in South Wales, but Network Rail said there has been a "worrying trend" of trespass and level crossing misuse right across the country - particularly since the introduction of Covid-19 restrictions.

The rail operator had to issue a warning to people in West Yorkshire back in July for the same reason, with footage released of three youngsters using the Ducketts level crossing in Pudsey to access the railway in May, during the lockdown.

Read more about that here...

The "photoshoot" happened at a crossing in Cilfrew, near Neath, on Wednesday, July 22, at around 6.45pm.

It shows a woman in a dress walking down the track, with a summer hat in her hand.

Another person is setting up a light reflector at the side of the track.

The second photo of this incident shows the woman sat on the crossing, in the middle of the track.

Network Rail posted about the images on social media website, Twitter.

The post said: "In today's edition of 'It should be obvious ...'

"Nice places for a photoshoot: sunset, beautiful countryside, beach, not a railway line.

"Unbelievable."

British Transport Police (BTP) have recorded 221 incidents of trespass and 67 incidents of misuse at level crossings so far this year.

The actual number of times people have risked their lives on railways across the country is thought to be much higher.

Two other images issued by Network Rail show two individuals stopping to take "selfies" on the Trenos level crossing, near Llanharan and Pencoed.

This happened on Friday, June 12, at around 8.15pm

A busy line between Cardiff and Swansea travels through the Trenos level crossing at speeds of up to 85mph.

The final image shows a person wandering down the railway track at the Skewen level crossing.

It was at 4.09pm on Thursday, May 14.

Each of these incidents could have resulted in fatal or life-changing consequences.

Other repeat locations in South Wales include: Rhoose, Maesteg, Llanelli, Llanion and Dinas Powys.

The worrying images have led to a plea from Network Rail and BTP for people not to loiter, or be complacent when using a level crossing, no matter how scenic the location.

Parents are also being asked to ensure children are closely supervised when in the vicinity of the railway and the signage informing a user to Stop, Look and Listen is observed.

Anyone not following these rules is risking serious consequences.

Ronnie Gallagher, Route Level Crossing Manager at Network Rail commented said: "We have noticed a significant increase in use at public footpaths since the introduction of Covid-19 restrictions.

"People have been walking longer distances and many will be using level crossings for the first time.

"It is important that you concentrate, follow the instructions and only cross when there are no trains approaching."

British Transport Police Embedded Inspector, Beata Evans, said: Each year, hundreds of people take risks on and around the railway, resulting in tragic consequences and life-changing injuries.

"We are continuing to proactively patrol the railway network across Wales.

"Safety is our number one priority and we’re reminding everyone of the importance of taking care around the railway and that everyone loses when you step on the track."

The Department for Transport recently reported that, during lockdown, cycling in some parts of the UK had risen by up to 300 per cent on some days.

This, combined with the usual spike in outdoor exercise during the summer months, makes it even more important for people to be aware of how to use level crossings safely.

Here are some key pieces of advice:

  • Concentrate – it’s easy to get distracted, especially by phones, music and conversation.
  • Stop, look and listen. Follow signs and instructions.
  • Check both ways before crossing – if there is a train coming, don’t cross.
  • Understand the warnings (lights, barriers, alarms).
  • Cross quickly, keeping children close and dogs on a lead.