BTP warning about violence

Train

Violence will not be tolerated on the railway this Christmas - That’s the message being issued by British Transport Police who will be out and about around the network this festive season to keep passengers and staff safe.

Historically, in the run-up to Christmas, levels of recorded violence on the railways have increased as the network is used by people who have often been out drinking.

Detective Chief Inspector Malcolm McKinnon said: "It is a sad fact that the consumption of excessive amounts of alcohol often results in violence

"It seems that behaviour which would ordinarily seem completely unacceptable becomes OK when inhibitions and tolerance levels are lowered through drinking too much.

"At Christmas – a time when people should be celebrating – we often see increased levels of violence as people use the rail network following office parties and nights out.

"We simply will not tolerate any form of violence on the railway this Christmas and officers will be out in force to take action against anyone who becomes aggressive or violent.

"BTP wants everyone to have a happy and safe Christmas and will be working hard to take steps to ensure this is the case.

"Of course, we don’t want to spoil nights out, but it is important that everyone is aware of their limits and the effect their behaviour has on others.

"I ask that everyone thinks hard about their behaviour this Christmas. When drunk, issues that would normally seem trivial can be blown out of proportion and can result in arguments and subsequent violence.

"This Christmas please consider other people, drink responsibly and don’t let your behaviour spoil the festive season."