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Wednesday 9 Sep 2020

Shocking image caught on camera of a woman attempting to cross the track at Hilsea, near Portsmouth, with a pushchair

Region & Route:

Southern: Wessex

Network Rail is warning passengers about the dangers of trespass after a woman was caught on camera as she tried to cross the track with her pram at Hilsea station.

The incident which happened on 29 August at around midday, was captured by the train’s on-board camera.

It shows the woman walking with a buggy to the end of the platform and down the ramp which leads to track as she was attempting to cross over to the other side of the station.

The driver of the 11.45am South Western Railway Portsmouth Harbour service to London Waterloo narrowly missed the female, who was standing in the area next to the track.

Network Rail is warning passengers they should never get close to the rail or even attempt to cross the track as it might save a few seconds but it could cost you your life as the third rail carries 750 volts of electricity, and trains pass through at speed.

Mark Killick, Network Rail Wessex route director said: “The behaviour at Hilsea station is deeply concerning and shows that people are completely oblivious to the dangers they are putting themselves in.

“This incident could have easily ended in tragedy, and the lives of the woman’s family and that of the train driver could have changed forever.

“It is absolutely vital no-one should ever attempt to either get close to or cross the track.”

Neil Gillies, head of drivers at South Western Railway, said: “Near misses like this one at Hilsea station can also seriously affect the train drivers who witness these incidents. We’re glad no-one was injured, but this woman had a very luck escape.

“You may think walking across the tracks will save time, but it could cost your life.”