Reckless youngsters have been caught risking their lives by playing on railway tracks as trains thundered past in a series of terrifying incidents.
Shocking footage captured a hair-raising near miss which forced a train driver to slam on the emergency brakes at a crossing.
The alarming incident came just days after another group of youths were caught placing stones on the railway line.
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CCTV footage from the crossing showed five teenagers standing on the tracks, with two later returning to remove the stones.
Although no trains struck the obstruction, rail bosses warned the stunt could have ended in tragedy.
Video from a second incident showed two young people standing on the crossing as a train rapidly approached, as reported by Need To Know.
One youngster appeared to move away from the tracks, but the other remained standing there until the train was only feet away before finally stepping clear.
The driver was forced to trigger the emergency brakes, bringing the train to a halt moments after passing through the crossing.
The frightening incidents both happened at a pedestrian railway crossing near South Kessock.
Around 30 trains travel through the crossing every day at speeds of up to 50mph.
Rail users are being urged to obey warning signs and never attempt to cross when a train is approaching.
Rachel Shaw, head of operational safety at Network Rail, said: “Incidents like this are incredibly concerning.
“The railway is not a place to hang around with your friends.
“It’s an operational environment with fast moving trains that can’t swerve out the way or stop quickly.
“Ignoring the signage or warnings of an approaching train not only puts those on tracks at risk, but also passengers and railway staff.
“I’d urge everyone, especially young people, to treat the railway with respect and never engage in dangerous behaviour like this.”
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