A Wem Shropshire councillor believes a meeting held by Network Rail last week will prove to be a worthwhile exercise.

The rail company held a drop-in session in the town as concerns around the train station barriers grow, especially after Network Rail in Wales and Borders released figures to say more than 1,000 incidents were recorded of barrier abuse.

Pauline Dee, who is an independent councillor in Shropshire, attended the meeting and she thinks some of the ideas put forward by residents could work in order to improve safety at the barriers.

"It was really good – when I was there, there were plenty of people and I stayed for around 45 minutes," she said.

"I spoke to the manager of the Wem level crossing and he was also asked a lot of questions by residents.

"It was the public who were imforming him, people that were there were able to talk to Network rail and there was a Transport Police representation there, so people were able to ask questions to them too.

"Those who went when I was there were asking about the waiting time at the barriers and the abusing of them, with the more than a thousand incidents.

"It brought up the need for another ticket machine there and also for the right turn so that when the cars go over the barrier, they can just turn right.

"People said that the one-way system was really good as there seemed to be fewer incidents, and they were encouraged by the one-way system.

"I spoke at the Marches Rail Group later in the week and told Steve Davenport, who is responsible for transport at Shropshire Council, that we should talk more about it.

"The one-way system came into place because of road works towards last Christmas. I wasn't sure how it would work but all of the people who talked about it there said the same thing, that it worked."

Network Rail were also delighted with the turnout and feedback they received, but continued to warn residents about the dangers of abusing the barriers.

A spokesperson said: “It’s really important for people to understand how dangerous railway crossings can be, and we were pleased to see such a great turnout for our safety events in Wem.

“We are seeing drivers take risks at level crossings every day – putting themselves and others in danger. Nothing is worth risking your life over, just to save a few minutes of time.”