Police warning for railway yobs

Police are warning teenagers to stay away from railway lines this Easter.

Last year, teenagers damaged trains travelling to Manchester, fought on the railway line and threw missiles at police.

Insp Michelle Wedderburn, of British Transport Police, said: “We do not want a repeat of last year’s trouble. We will be running an operation specifically designed to target those who seek to cause problems.

“Criminal damage and trespass are extremely serious offences as they can not only create delays on the railway, but also have the potential to put lives at risk.

“Those who trespass on the line are risking their own safety as trains travel at high speed and stopping can take a long time. Often, by the time someone on the tracks spots a train it can be too late.

“Similarly, criminal damage can, in the worst cases, result in serious injury.

“Last year, moving trains were struck by bricks. It was only through luck that no-one was hurt.

“If a brick or other solid object strikes a train window, staff and passengers can be showered with broken glass and even hit with the object thrown at the train. Because of the speeds involved this has the potential to cause serious, potentially fatal, injuries.”

In a bid to prevent trouble this year, British Transport Police has joined forces with the local community.

Officers will be increasing patrols in the area to deter troublemakers and will be utilising a variety of techniques, including CCTV, to locate and identify those intent on causing trouble.

Insp Wedderburn added: “We do not take this type of behaviour lightly. We will take a very dim view of anyone caught acting in a criminal or anti-social manner.

“We will not hesitate to take action against anyone caught causing problems for the railway and local community.”

British Transport Police is urging anyone who spots anti-social behaviour on the railway to report it on 0800 40 50 40.