VANDALS have wrecked a level-crossing which is causing safety concerns for local residents.

The crossing at Schola Green, which is a vital link in the Lancaster to Morecambe cycle path, has been vandalised three times by youths in the last couple of years.

One resident, who has watched aghast as the vandals destroyed fences around the crossing, said: "I stood and watched as they not only kicked down the fence but also whole sections including the posts and threw them in the ditch. Others have also pulled the wood off the crossing gates leaving exposed nails.

"I don't know what do they get out of it. Someone could get injured because of their stupidity."

Ward councillors Nick Westwell and David Kerr this week organised a meeting with Sgt Williams from Morecambe Police and Bob Clarke, Community Relations Manager of Railtrack North West.

Cllr Kerr said: "We need to catch the youths responsible. Someone out there knows who is doing this and we need to get that information - either to the police, Railtrack or even the city council. Railtrack have been wonderful, they have responded quickly and effectively to all the previous incidents without question."

Cllr Westwell added: "During the meeting we discussed the possibility of a stronger type of fencing and wider gates that would give easier access for wheel chairs and double buggies, as this crossing is a vital link in the cycle track to Lancaster and beyond. Railtrack have taken all the details back to their Manchester base for consideration."

If you have any information about the vandals call the police on 63333.