East Lancashire Railway warns trespassers to stay off the tracks

The East Lancashire Railway (ELR) has issued a stark safety warning to trespassers to stay off the railway tracks while it remains closed during lockdown. 

ELR Chairman Mike Kelly said walking on the line remains dangerous as maintenance trains are still running, despite it being closed to the public. 

The heritage railway has issued the warning after Rossendale Police and Bury North Police confirmed there have been issues along the line, which runs for 20km between Heywood and Rawtenstall.

 

 

Mike Kelly commented: “We were extremely disappointed to hear of further trespassing incidents that have recently taken place despite repeated safety warnings.

“While East Lancashire Railway lines have remained closed during lockdown, there are still a number of unscheduled maintenance trains running.

“Trespassing on railway tracks is a criminal offence for good reason. It is incredibly dangerous and people who walk on the line are putting themselves at grave risk of serious injury and fatality.

“We thank Rossendale Police for bringing the issue to everyone’s attention and warning people that walking on the line is still perilous during lockdown.”

In a tweet, Rossendale Police said: "Please can we remind people to keep off the railway tracks of the East Lancs Railway.

"As well as potentially committing an expensive offence, it's a dangerous place to be walking. 

“Although passenger trains are currently suspended the track is still being used by a works train which has encountered numerous people walking the line without high vis clothing and in clear breach of the law."

East Lancashire Railway is now closed until further notice, and once again the public can help ensure it can reopen again by donating to the ELR Support Fund.

To support East Lancashire Railway visit: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk