AN elderly man was taken to hospital after falling down steps over the railway line at Paignton.

He suffered head and leg injuries and was taken to Torbay Hospital for treatment.

It follows the temporary closure of the level crossing at the railway station while work is carried out.

Pedestrians are being told to either take the footbridge to cross the line or a longer detour through Victoria Park.

There has been widespread criticism of the closure from local businesses who complain they have not been consulted about the plans.

Now, in the light of the accident, there are fears about the safety of pedestrians, especially older people, as the colder weather makes conditions underfoot more slippery.

A spokesman for the ambulance service confirmed a man aged about 70 had suffered head and leg injuries.

One witness said: "The man started to cross the bridge but it was extremely slippery. I think he has probably broken his leg."

A business owner, who did not want to be named, said: "I thought this was going to happen.

"People will choose to go over the bridge rather than walk through Victoria Park."

Network Rail is upgrading the signalling and infrastructure on the Paignton branch line and installing a new crossing at the Torbay Road junction.

It means the route will be closed to vehicles for a another week with diversions in place.

Amey Rail is carrying out the work on behalf of owners Network Rail, and has already completed some work along other parts of the line.

Matthew Clarke, chairman of the Business Improvement District in Paignton, said it was 'human nature' that people would try to take the shortest route across the junction by using the footbridge, even if it was slippery.

He said there should be a 'keep left' sign on the bridge to minimise the chance of accidents.

Resident John Webb said: "There is a sign on the closed gates blocking the public highway stating that if you are unable to cross by the footbridge or the pedestrian diversion through the park, a member of staff will be on duty to allow access across the railway line."

The council said the work was the responsibility of Network Rail.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: "This essential work will replace the existing crossing so it is more reliable and safer to use, with additional warning lights installed for pedestrians.

"The work has been planned to minimise disruption as much as possible but we apologise for any inconvenience caused.

"Local residents and businesses have been contacted and short diversions are clearly marked for motorists, pedestrians and wheelchair users."