Network Rail has responded to campaigners' complaints after a Coalville footpath was fenced off.

Coalville Nub News reported last weekend that local walkers were devastated after work started in the area, preventing access from Scotlands Playing Field towards Hugglescote Walkers fight to win back access to Coalville footpath

A campaign has started to re-open the path - although Network Rail says no right of way has been blocked.

The path has not been officially registered but has been used by locals for over 40 years.

Network Rail gave Coalville Nub News a statement from Dawn Sweeting, Community Safety Manager for Network Rail.

She said: "Network Rail has recently carried out work to upgrade the fencing, which separates the railway boundary in Coalville, to help deter people from trespassing on the railway.

"Safety is our main priority, and unfortunately trespassing is an ongoing problem in the area.

"It is extremely dangerous and can result in fatal or life changing consequences, as well as causing delays to services.

"Work had already been carried out several times to repair the fence, but it was continually vandalised, which meant that children were illegally accessing the railway.

"After carrying out risk assessments and working with North West Leicestershire District Council, we have installed a new fence which is stronger and higher, and it does not block any public rights of way."