The UK’s leading open access rail operators Lumo and Hull Trains have released shocking footage of a runner narrowly missing being hit by a train travelling at over 100 mph.
The footage, captured from a Lumo train passing through North Tyneside on the East Coast Main Line, has been made public to mark the annual Rail Safety Week, as both companies shine a spotlight on how to safely interact with the railways.
The clip shows the runner failing to safely use the crossing and is a powerful reminder of the importance of paying attention to your surroundings and observing the crossing instructions.
Rail Safety Week is an annual, industry-wide initiative dedicated to promoting and improving rail safety for workers, customers and local communities. It aims to reduce accidents, educate people and create a strong safety culture across the network.
Lumo and Hull Trains have supported the delivery of rail safety resources to 45 schools over the past year, in association with the Rail Safe Friendly Programme. The programme is dedicated to spreading the vital message of rail safety among young people, educators and parents in schools across the UK.
The operators’ involvement has led to a social value impact of over £724,000 in 2024-25, directly educating thousands of young people.
David Hughes, Head of Safety, Security and Sustainability at First Rail Open Access, said: “This footage is an important reminder of the importance of rail safety. We hope this acts as a stark message for people to recognise the danger of not paying attention.
“We believe that education about rail safety should start from a young age. That’s why we’re now into the third year of our important partnership with the Rail Safe Friendly Programme, giving young people the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe.
“Travelling by train is safe, cost-effective and sustainable. It is, however, vital to recognise that behaviour like that seen in the footage poses a real risk to life.”
David Wortley, Network Rail route level crossing manager, East Coast, said: “Near misses like this are a stark reminder of how using level crossings incorrectly can easily lead to tragic consequences. One poor decision can change a life forever.
“Research shows a worrying overconfidence when it comes to crossings, which is why Network Rail, British Transport Police and the wider rail community recently launched No Second Chances, the first industry-wide level crossing campaign to raise awareness of the dangers.
“It’s vital that everyone stops, looks, listens and follows the instructions and signage, because every crossing is different. No journey is worth risking your life.”
Lumo and Hull Trains are open access rail operators, meaning that they don’t rely on any government funding. They are loyal only to the customers and communities they proudly support.
Lumo is an exciting, growing rail operator that has served the East Coast Main Line with industry-leading 100% electric trains for several years. Lumo connects Glasgow with Falkirk, Edinburgh, Morpeth, Newcastle, Stevenage and London King’s Cross. The operator has also just launched a critically acclaimed new West Coast service, providing Stirling with a direct train service to London Euston, calling at destinations including Carlisle, Preston and Nuneaton.
Hull Trains, recently named ‘Operator of the Year’ at the prestigious Spotlight Rail Awards, offers affordable travel to destinations including Beverley, Hull, Doncaster, Grantham, Selby and London King’s Cross.
The operator successfully combines sustainability with affordable fares, excellent service and support for local communities.
Rail Safety Week: https://www.railsafetyweek.org/