A recent story about how Ashfield District Council's bid to reopen Maid Marian line was rejected by the government sparked concern from readers, who were quick to point out that the councillors photographed were on a level crossing. The photo showed Selston Councillors Andy Gascoyne and Arnie Hankin with Ashfield’s Council Leader Jason Zadrozny stood and chatting on a level crossing and has since been removed.
A spokesperson from Network Rail has said: "It’s incredibly dangerous for people to stand and chat on a level crossing and is not how it should be used. We’ve got a really big concern with the photo as it looks dangerous and gives the wrong impression. People may see this and think this is a safe thing to do when it is not."
Councillor Arnie Hankin, a Selston Ashfield Independent District Councillor said: "We were very careful to ensure we were safe as we stood on the level crossing, which is not illegal. Ashfield Independent Councillors Andy Gascoyne, David Martin, Jason Zadrozny and I are regularly patrolling the Selston Parish highlighting opportunities for investment.
He added: "In the last few weeks alone, we have secured £160,000 for Selston Country Park. The picture you refer to is part of our campaign to reopen the Maid Marian Line to rail passengers, something the Tories have now delayed by a decade.
"The missed opportunities highlighted by the delay will hit the young of our Parish in particular. We will continue to fight for every penny of investment for Selston, just as we always do. We would encourage people to stay away from the railway lines and use the level crossing, just like we did.”
