CHILDREN were reportedly seen playing on train tracks.

A huge emergency service presence was called to Cuddington station over the weekend amid reports of trespassers on the line.

Drones, helicopters and dogs were called in as Cheshire Police feared there could be a 'threat to life'.

A spokesperson for the force said: “From our perspective, there were reports of children playing on the track, which is not only dangerous but could also pose a threat to life.

“The drone and helicopter we used as they were the most efficient way of searching the tracks, which pass through both urban and rural areas.”

Cheshire Police first received reports of children on the tracks at Cuddington at 8.15pm on Saturday (March 30).

Trains were stopped from running on the line while officers joined their British Transport Police colleagues to conduct a search of the area.

Cheshire Police’s drone unit and the police helicopter were also brought in for help, while a police dog could be seen on the platform.

Despite the large response, no one was found.

A BTP spokesperson said: “Officers were called to the line near Cuddington railway station at around 8.15pm on March 30 to reports of a trespasser on the line.

“Officers attended alongside paramedics and an extensive area search was conducted however there was no trace of a person.

“Trespass is a crime and is seriously dangerous – you can find out more at youvstrain.co.uk.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and North West Ambulance Service also attended the scene.

A NWAS spokesperson said they had received 'reports of someone being hit by the train'.

However, no patient was located.