A LEVEL crossing which has seen more than a dozen instances of youngsters dicing with death will now be closed for the next six months - after Barnsley Council and Network Rail worked together to maintain public safety.

The crossing, in Wilthorpe, has been the scene of 15 incidents in a two-month period which has seen teenagers lay down on the line, hold the gates shut as trains approach, place ballast on live rail and cross in front of oncoming trains - despite drivers sounding urgent warnings.

It has a speed limit of 125mph and bosses involved in the investigation described the goings-on as the ‘worst ever seen’ on a live crossing.

Network Rail had applied to the council for the level crossing to be closed and were successful in receiving two three-week emergency closure orders.

But bosses have now confirmed that the six-month footpath closure has now been approved by Barnsley Council under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 to help maintain public safety.

Andy Cunningham, the Network Rail route level crossing manager, said: “The footage we released in May showed exactly why urgent action was needed at Wilthorpe footpath crossing.

“The shocking misuse and disregard for safety is the worst I’ve ever seen, with people risking their own and others’ lives.

“We knew that this was a popular walking route, so did not take the decision lightly, but since the initial closure we have received messages from residents supporting our decision, recognising that this was entirely the right thing to do for the safety of the community.

“I’ve visited the site with local councillors to explore the surrounding footpath network and assess long-term options as we look to prevent a possible tragedy.”

British Transport Police have been visiting local schools to raise awareness of the dangers of ‘playing’ on level crossings - and bosses are urging parents to speak with their children about the incidents.

But Network Rail have confirmed that it’s not just children dicing with death, it’s adults too.

Coun Clive Pickering, who represents the Old Town ward, told the Chronicle he is happy that the safety of youngsters in his area is at the centre of the plans.

He added: “I am really pleased that work is being done for public safety.

“Kids can be daft, but we need to do something that will protect them.

“At the minute it’s only a matter of time before something really bad happens so this news is good.

“I can’t understand why adults would be doing it - incidents like that encourage young people to do the same.

“And it’s good that the British Transport Police are going into schools.

“We need teachers to tell the kids about the danger of what they’re doing.

“Hopefully this will help.”