Harry Potter fans have been told to stay off railway tracks to get a better view of a steam train known for its appearance in the films.
Network Rail Scotland has urged visitors to the Glenfinnan Viaduct to stay clear of the railway after reports of tourists trespassing onto the tracks to see the train that inspired the Hogwarts Express.
The Victorian bridge in Lochaber became a tourist attraction after featuring in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
In a scene of the 2002 film, Harry and Ron fly Mr Weasley’s enchanted car over the bridge as the Hogwarts Express passes beneath them while billowing steam.
The fictional locomotive was based on a real steam train, The Jacobite, which carries passengers from Fort William to Mallaig on special trips during the summer.
Large crowds gather near the viaduct to see the Jacobite steam train pass through, but spectators have been warned against wandering onto the tracks to get a better view of the train.
Neil Cook, a route crime manager for Network Rail Scotland, said: “The Jacobite steam train’s journey over Glenfinnan Viaduct is a magical sight but it’s not worth risking your life for.
“Too often, we receive reports of dangerous behaviour, with people climbing fences, standing on the railway, or walking along the track to try to get closer.”
He added: “Trespassing on the railway is illegal and puts lives at serious risk. Trains can come from either direction, are quieter than people expect and can’t stop quickly.”
Steam trains on the West Highland line were withdrawn in 1967, but the service was revived in 1984 and is now operated by West Coast Railways.
The six-hour route is popular with tourists because of the history of the line and the spectacular scenery of the Western Highlands enjoyed by passengers.
Tickets can fetch up to £252 for a private table in first class.
A couple and a child were seen on the tracks in 2015.
In 2012, a steam train driver was forced to brake on the viaduct after spotting two older women standing perilously close to the line.
Train drivers also reported seeing two men on the line taking photographs and a group of hillwalkers “wandering casually” on the line between Glenfinnan and Arisaig, according to BBC News.