Safety plea to pedestrians after shocking near miss near Princes Risborough

The driver of a Chiltern Railways London to Oxford service reported the harrowing incident shortly after 8.30am on Friday 6 November.

Video footage was captured of the jogger – who was wearing earphones - using the level crossing without looking when the approaching train was only metres away.

Up to 121 trains per day pass over Ridgeway Path level crossing at high speeds.

Rhys Evans, level crossing manager at Network Rail, said: “The difference of just a few seconds could have led to tragedy for this level crossing user. No matter how well you think you know a crossing, all users must stop, look and listen every single time they cross the railway. Additionally, you must always remove headphones when using a level crossing.

“It would be easy to believe that level crossings in more rural areas would be less dangerous, but all crossings must be approached with the same caution and users must avoid distractions and concentrate on crossing the railway safely.”

Ian Hyde, engineering and safety director at Chiltern Railways, said:

“Trains run frequently on the Chiltern network and the safe use of level crossings is critical to protect pedestrians who need to cross the railway as well as customers onboard our trains. Near-misses leave drivers feeling very shaken and we would urge people to please respect the railway and when crossing, follow the instructions and remain vigilant at all times. This near miss, but for a few seconds, could have had far worse consequences.”

For more information and resources on how to use all types of level crossings safely, visit the Network Rail website: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/communities/safety-in-the-community/level-crossing-safety/