THE council has slammed the people in a shocking video which emerged on social media platform TikTok of a car being photographed on a live railway crossing in Bolton.

The video shows a car parked in the middle of the tracks at The Oaks level crossing in Bromley Cross, along with a tripod set up on the railway to take pictures.

The TikTok user’s video appears to brag about the dangerous position they have put themselves in by captioning the footage with the question “would you take the risk to take the photograph no one else would?”

The incident was reported to Network Rail and British Transport Police are investigating.

Executive cabinet member for highways and transport, Cllr Stuart Haslam, said: "No words can express the absolute and outrageous stupidity of this so-called prank.

"The consequences of such mindboggling irresponsibility could have been horrific.

"The derailment of a train travelling at 40-50 mph undoubtedly can result in death and horrific injuries of the totally innocent passengers and crew of the train going about their daily lives.

"I condemn it completely."

Bromley Cross Cllr Samantha Connor added: "I do not see the sense of it.

"It is just completely shocking, why would anyone do that?"

Trespass on the railway is a criminal offence with up to a £1,000 fine.

Train obstruction is punishable by up to two years in prison.

Inspector Becky Warren from British Transport Police, said: “There is simply no excuse for not following safety procedures at level crossings.

"The behaviour shown by the individuals in this video is incredibly dangerous and reckless – no picture or video is worth risking your life for."

TikTok has also condemned the behaviour in the video.

A spokesman said: "The safety of our users is our top priority.

"As we make clear in our community guidelines, we do not allow content that encourages, promotes, or glorifies dangerous behaviour that might lead to injury.

"We removed this video as soon as it was brought to our attention."

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting ref 122 of January 14.