British Transport Police have released CCTV footage of a man who crossed the railway tracks at Cross Keys station in a misguided attempt to catch a train.

They hope the images will help identify the man trespassing on the tracks.

They also want the footage to serve as a serious reminder to other people who risk their lives by taking shortcuts across railway tracks.

Inspector Mike Jones, officer in charge at BTP Cardiff, said: "I am genuinely appalled to see that, despite our constant warnings, some people are still willing to risk their lives by trespassing on the tracks.

“This shocking footage clearly shows the man pass around the front of the train, in the direction it is about to move, to try and get on board.

The incident took place at 8pm on Wednesday, 15 May, as the 7.40pm Ebbw Vale to Cardiff Central service was preparing to leave Cross Keys station.

A man jumped from the opposite platform, walked across the tracks and around the front of the train onto the other platform. He then tried to open the doors to the train but is unable to, and the train moves away.

Anyone with any information about the incident should contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B7/WA of 30/05/2013 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.