RAILTRACK has ruled out major changes to a crossing where a former pub landlord was killed, despite pressure from his family and the local community.

The news comes just days after Worcestershire coroner Victor Round raised concerns about the crossing, near Jamaica Road, Malvern Link.

His comments came during a hearing into the accident, which claimed the life of Dave Boycott, former landlord of the Prince of Wales, in Newtown Road, in May. His is the third death at the spot in 13 years.

The crossing is used regularly, especially by children, as it links two playing fields and provides a route to Dyson Perrins School.

Railtrack says it cannot justify installing a bridge or underpass at the site, instead saying it will put up "whistle boards" instructing drivers to sound their horns as they approach.

"We monitor the level of usage the crossing gets and at the moment it does not get enough use to warrant changing the type of crossing," said spokesman Lou Tate.

"The crossing meets the requirements of the Health and Safety Executive and we have not conducted a survey to see whether or not a bridge or tunnel could be installed."

The decision has been attacked by Mr Boycott's widow, Pat, of Jamaica Road.

"They (the whistle boards) are not going to help at all," she said.

"The crossing is used all the time by children and I would like to see a tunnel or a bridge there.

"Whatever they do will not bring my husband back but it might prevent something like it happening again."

At the inquest into Mr Boycott's death on Tuesday, Mr Round pledged to personally inspect the spot. He recorded a verdict of accidental death.

He made the decision after hearing accounts of how Mr Boycott, 73, was killed while saving his wife's beloved German shepherd, Shanty, crossing the track.

"I know the family have expressed concern about the crossing, particularly as it is constantly used by children," he said.

"We can't ban all adults from using crossings but one near a playing field does make me quite thoughtful."

Valerie Bumphrey, whose father Frank Shelton died on the crossing in 1988, echoed calls for action.

"It should be closed or made safe," she said.

"I don't like the thought of children going across the tracks."

Trinity ward councillor David Williams said he was unhappy with Railtrack's response.

"I want to see proper fencing there and a bridge so kids can get to school without risking their lives," he said.

"There have been too many accidents there in too short a space of time.

"It's a money issue. There's no other reason for them not to replace it."