Police have warned that trespassers on local railway lines could be prosecuted after receiving reports of people walking along live tracks.

Moorlands officers warned on Sunday morning (15th May) that the public should adhere to the warnings and restrictions on local railway lines.

Churnet Valley Railway also had to issue a warning about trespassing in March last year, when they said: "The national lockdowns have increased the amount of trespass to such an extent that at some points in the day, areas around Leekbrook Junction resemble more an afternoon stroll in the park than a railway."

They added at the time: "Some trespassers seem to think that the only danger is from trains. In fact, this is one of many dangers. If you trip, slip or fall on a piece of railway track and are unfortunate to hit your head on a rail, there is a good chance you will be knocked unconscious. This is a real risk - trains or not.

"We find it incredulous that adults are actively encouraging children to trespass. What sort of example this sets we struggle to understand. Recent trespass activities have included a horse and rider taking a stroll, a family who all crossed over a gate including with their toddler and also a metal detectorist who came equipped with detector and spade."

Moorlands officers reiterated this warning on Sunday, adding that the landowner could seek prosecution.

PCSO Dan Nettleton, of Staffordshire Police's Moorlands team, said: "Following reports of persons walking along live railway lines, I thought it a timely reminder to ensure all warnings and restrictions are adhered to. Please be vigilant and observant of signs around the railway lines.

"Any gates allowing access must be closed once crossed.

"Finally, some parts of the Churnet Valley Railway is not accessible to the public and prosecution for trespassing could be sought by landowner."