CHILDREN and motorists are risking their lives trying to beat level crossings in the York area, say police.

British Transport Police have issued a warning after incidents on crossings in the Haxby and Strensall area, in which school children and motorists were endangered when they tried to rush across the crossing when the lights were flashing.

"We have had several incidents, but luckily no accidents, and we want to give this warning to make sure that we don't get any," said PC Nick Storey, of British Transport Police.

"We need to get across to kids on foot and on bikes the danger of the crossings if they are not used correctly.

"It is particularly bad near Joseph Rowntree School, where children are running across when the lights are flashing so they do not have to wait at the barriers."

The call for more care on the level crossings was supported by the school.

Head teacher Hugh Potter said: "We do have reports from the police and motorists who see our children trying to get across quickly.

"We do have regular safety briefings with the children about the safety issue around the level crossings and if we know of any individual situation we will contact parents. I would like to reiterate how important it is that the children do follow the rules and do take care to be safe."

The police warning given to motorists trying to beat the barriers was more stark.

"We will take positive action against people misusing level crossings in a car," said PC Storey.

"To misuse the crossing is an offence, which puts themselves and the rail passengers at real risk."

Updated: 09:30 Saturday, June 28, 2003