Drivers still risking lives on Wem level crossing

Drivers are continuing to put their lives and those of rail passengers at risk on a Shropshire railway level crossing, new police figures revealed today.

British Transport Police have released figures which show that between January 1 last year and June 17 this year officers dealt with a total of 133 reported incidents at Wem level crossing in Aston Street/Soulton Road.

They also reveal the vast majority of the motorists - 125 - were dealt with for failing to comply with a red traffic light, while others were dealt with for offences including dangerous driving, careless or inconsiderate driving, and using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving.

­A British Transport Police spokesman said: "Wem level crossing has been identified as a location where BTP will work in partnership with Network Rail and other industry bodies in an effort to reduce the number of motorists misusing crossings.

"Reducing incidents of misuse at level crossings is a priority for BTP and Network Rail and joint initiatives are being planned to deliver education initiatives to drivers at the locations and to carry out enforcement where necessary.

"BTP officers will continue to host weekly safety initiatives at Wem level crossing, speaking to drivers and handing out safety leaflets warning them of the dangers of misusing the crossing."

Sergeant Karl Anderson of BTP Shrewsbury, said: "Our officers regularly patrol the location and they are finding that the message is getting through to drivers that the crossing is covered by CCTV and if they attempt to run the red lights or flout the rules, they will be caught and dealt with."