On the early morning of October 24, 2025, our community was forever changed by the tragic loss of a vibrant young life. At approximately 06:55, 17-year-old Harry Basham was struck by a train at the '5/13' foot crossing, located about a mile east of Taunton Station. This heartbreaking event has left an indelible mark on Harry's family, friends, and our entire community, exposing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures at this perilous crossing.

The '5/13' foot crossing is not just a place of transit but a looming hazard for all pedestrians in its vicinity. The absence of basic safety features such as adequate lighting and properly functioning gates has created an unsafe environment, increasing the risk of accidents and tragedies like the one that claimed Harry's life. Currently, the crossing has kissing gates that fail to click in securely, posing a further risk to those attempting to cross safely. 

It is an undeniable fact that the lack of lighting and warning lights both at the crossing and along the approach significantly compromises pedestrian safety, especially during early morning or late evening hours. Furthermore, the faulty gates, which do not lock correctly, amplify the potential for unfavorable and hazardous incidents. There is no warning lights or stop go lights to warn pedestrians of oncoming trains which is astounding when this crossing is classed as high risk.

We have gone to the local MP and statements have been made for the inquest! Which is may next year!!!!!10years ago there was a report about stop/go lights being added to the crossing and nothing has been done, there is no lighting, cctv or even a warning line to stand behind at that crossing, and the gates are broken! They are not fit for purpose in the current world of smart phones and noise cancelling headphones alone let alone the lack of health and safety down there! We all know what narrative the company want to push and don’t want to take any accountability for Harry’s death! Well not on our watch! Sign and share this please!!!!

🙏

Harry is this most amazing person and will be forever loved and missed and we will forever fight in your honour 💔💔

As a community mourning the loss of one of our own, we cannot afford to wait for another tragedy to spur action.

We propose the urgent installation of safety features, including proper lighting, secure and effective locking mechanisms for the gates, and better warning systems such as flashing warning lights to alert pedestrians of oncoming trains. Implementing these measures will significantly enhance the safety of the crossing, preventing future accidents and ensuring that Harry's untimely death was not in vain.

May Harry's legacy be one of life and safety, sparking a necessary change that protects all who cross in his footsteps. We implore local authorities, railway companies, and safety regulators to prioritize this issue and commit to the improvements needed.

Please join us in advocating for the safety of our community and preventing further heartbreak by signing this petition. Together, we can drive the change needed to protect everyone who uses the '5/13' foot crossing in Taunton. Your support can save lives.

Please make sure you verify your email to make it count ❤️

This is the crossing in the dark as you can see visibility is very poor