Bosses of a long-running mini railway are urging people to keep off the tracks following a rise in the number of trespassers.

The warning comes from the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway (RHDR), a popular tourist attraction which is currently closed due to Covid-19 restrictions.

But staff say people walking across the tracks remains 'dangerous' as maintenance trains are still running.

A warning on Facebook from the company reads: "Trespassers beware.

"We're extremely disappointed to report an increase in trespassers on the railway.

"Diligent neighbours as well as our on site teams have been reporting a number of trespassers this week.

"Please note that the railway is not a footpath and that maintenance trains are still running."

The warning included a picture of three people walking across the railway.

The post continued: "The screenshot below of trespassers on the tracks has been shared by the trespasser and has over 90k likes - people who may not know that this is dangerous.

"It's sad that this isn't our usual cheerful post and usually we'd welcome visitors but this must be done in a safe manner in approved areas."

The RHDR, which opened in 1927, runs along 13.5 miles of track from Hythe to Dungeness and has five stations in-between.

The one-third full size steam and diesel locomotives attracts visitors from all over the world, earning the attraction a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvsior.

a spokesman for the railway added: "Although the railway is currently closed to the public there are maintenance trains running on most days and our teams are concerned over the increasing number of trespassers.

"Among our thoughts are that children are seeing these images of adults on railway tracks and thus think that it’s okay and safe to do so with no understanding that it takes trains longer to stop than the average car and that our trains weigh tens of tonnes. Our trains may be small but they still mighty!

"After our social media call out some members of the public – the minority – couldn’t see the issue with people using it for their daily walks, we’d be more than happy to point these people towards the wonderful countryside and coastal footpaths that are available in the area."

This is not the first time a train firm has warned people to be careful on tracks.

Last month, Network Rail reminded drivers to watch for and stop when red warning lights are displayed at automatic half barrier crossings.

It came after a car narrowly avoided being hit by a passing train.

Read more: All the latest news from Romney Marsh