A PHOTO of a child lying with their head dangling over a train platform ledge has caused shock and could prompt an investigation by the British Transport Police.

Onlooker Tim Brown, from Birmingham, was horrified when he spotted the child hanging over the edge of the ledge at Trowbridge railway station yesterday afternoon, and posted a photo on social media, which has since gone viral.

He said: "Absolutely unbelievable. Spoke to the adult, his reply was the train's not due. When I pointed out there may be others ie freight, empties, unscheduled etc the reply was the next ones not til 16.38.

"After speaking to the guard and explaining to the man that people are seriously injured and die doing this I was told I was a do gooder and the lad just wanted to look at the track."

The British Transport Police said it is getting further information into the incident before launching an investigation.

A spokesman for Great Western Railway said: "Trains often pass through railway stations without stopping and without appearing on any timetable at very high speeds.

"Stay safe by keeping back from the platform edge and behind the yellow line at all times, and listen out for announcements."