THE results of our investigation showing the numbers of drivers stopping on a controversial level crossing should ring alarm bells with everyone.

Since the crash in January which killed 85-year-old Banbury man Tom Pizzey, the crossing at Sandy Lane in Yarnton has been under intense scrutiny.

Mr Pizzey’s death highlighted residents’ concerns and led to the Oxford Mail pressing Network Rail on the issue. Despite stating at the time of the incident the crossing was in full working order, Network Rail later revealed 21 faults had been recorded in the 12 months before the fatal crash.

Now it appears drivers are so nervous when using the crossing that they do not trust the barriers or alert system.

And taking matters into their own hands, they are stopping between the barriers to try to check for themselves.

All it needs is for a car to break down, stall or get stuck on the crossing and another tragedy could occur.

As with many issues, the problem here is two-fold. Network Rail must make sure the crossing and its barriers works properly. But it must also make sure drivers feel certain it is safe.