THE importance of safety steps when crossing the West Somerset Railway (WSR) has been emphasised after a person was nearly hit by one of its steam locomotives.

The train was leaving Watchet Station when the person ran from near the harbour up a flight of steps and straight on to the track in front of the engine at the Goviers Lane crossing.

A WSR spokesperson said: “The train was required to make an emergency stop, bringing it to a stand across the crossing for several minutes before it could safely continue its journey.

“On this occasion, the person was fortunately unharmed.

“However, this may not have been the case and can be very distressing for the crews involved.

“This incident highlights why it is important that everybody using the crossing takes a moment to stop, look, and listen before proceeding.

“These simple actions help ensure crossings remain a safe facility for everybody.

“The crossing is regularly inspected and assessed to ensure it remains safe and compliant, and is designed to be used safely when instructions provided are followed.”

The spokesperson said the incident was a reminder for all users of the simple steps they should take when using the crossing.

Separately, the WSR released a CCTV image showing its Odney Manor steam locomotive stopped across the crossing to illustrate how far the train travelled even with an emergency stop from a slow departure.

The spokesperson said: “The locomotive and carriages behind it do not stop straight away.

“From the time the person was seen, to the brake being put in, this is how far the locomotive got across the crossing before reaching a stopped position.

“Therefore, crossing when the train is visible or when a train can be heard whistling, is extremely dangerous.”

CCTV was installed at the crossing earlier this year by the WSR working with Watchet Town Council.