A RAILWAY line operator yesterday promised to keep security tight following reports that people were trespassing on train tracks.

People who live close to the East Coast Main Line at Ferryhill Station say people - especially youngsters - are dicing with death by walking or riding bikes near the line.

Three safety gates are meant to keep trespassers away from the track and a railway bridge.

Residents say the gates used to be locked at all times, except when rail workers or utility companies needed access.

But in recent weeks, quad and mini-motorbike owners have gained access to the railway land and have been seen riding in the area.

One resident, who did not want to be identified, said: "I've seen bikes ridden alongside the live tracks.

"The gates need to be kept locked to keep these people out, for their own safety and railway safety."

Network Rail yesterday sent a worker to carry out a safety check in the area and said the gates were locked. Earlier in the week, concerned residents contacted Ferryhill Town Council to report that the lock was missing from one of the gates, near the Surtees pub.

Town clerk Jamie Corrigan said: "We weren't just concerned about anti-social behaviour, but also the safety risks.

"Before the locked gates were fitted, unscrupulous people would dump rubbish under the rail tunnel. It would be disastrous if that was set alight under the East Coast Main Line.

"So we took it upon ourselves to lock that gate and made available a 24-hour telephone line in case access is required." A Network Rail spokesman said: "Trespassing and railway safety is an issue Network Rail takes very seriously.

"Through our No Messin' campaign and our team of railway crime education managers we spend millions of pounds every year trying to educate about the dangers of trespassing or playing on the railway.

"Trespassing on the railway as a shortcut is not only a crime which carries a fine of up to £1,000, but can result in very serious injury or death."

To report incidents of trespassing, call 0800-405040.