A TEENAGER'S drunken antics at a railway crossing could have put lives at risk, and caused hours of passenger delay, a court heard.

Joseph Michael Wildy, 18, moved a barrier up and down as a train went through the crossing at Barkerhouse Road, Nelson.

When the driver stopped, Wildy was abusive to him and tried to climb up the train, but fell. He then interfered with the train's heater, Burnley magistrates heard

Wildy was given a 12- month community rehabilitation order, with 60 hours community service, and ordered to pay £250 compensation.

Wildy, of Queens Promendade, Blackpool, admitted causing an engine, or carriage, using the railway to be obstructed. Catherine Allen, prosecuting, told the court Wildy obstructed the 5.43am Colne to Blackpool South train on January 29.

The driver would operate the barrier as he approached and, as he went over the crossing, saw Wildy on the roadside lifting the barrier up and down.

After he had gone across, the driver would have to make sure the barrier had gone back and a light should come on. No light came on, indicating a problem with the barrier. The driver then saw the defendant on the track side, still moving the barrier up and down.

Miss Allen said Wildy's behaviour caused 158 minutes of delay to more than 17 trains.

She added: "There was also the potential danger to people's lives by his actions."

Rachel Adamson, defending, said Wildy had been under the influence of alcohol and did not appreciate how serious his actions were.

He expressed remorse.