Appeal for information after train bricked at Rochdale

British Transport Police is hunting three youths who smashed the driver’s window of a moving train near Rochdale.

The incident happened at around 8.15pm on Tuesday 23 April, as the train passed below Clegg Hall Road.

As the train, the 7.08pm Northern rail service from Leeds to Manchester Victoria, approached the bridge the driver noticed three youths on the footpath.

Temporary Superintendent Malcolm McKinnon said: “Before the driver could really register what was happening he was showered with glass from the cab window as the youths had thrown a brick from the bridge.

“Fortunately the driver’s instinct was to move to one side and, though he was hit by the broken glass, he avoided the brick – which landed in the cab – and serious injury.”

Officers responded quickly to the incident, but could find no trace of the youths.

Enquiries are now ongoing and BTP is calling on anyone with information to come forward.

T/Supt McKinnon added: “This was a serious incident which could have resulted in the driver of the train sustaining significant injuries.

“I cannot over emphasise just how dangerous it is to throw objects at moving trains and the public and rail staff can rest assured that we will do everything in our power to find those responsible.

“But I am calling on local people to provide assistance and any information which could help locate the youths.”

Lee Wasnidge, Area Director for Northern Rail, said: “An incident such as a brick striking the window of a train can cause serious shock and upset, as well as potential physical injury to our crew. As a result, our passengers can suffer long and unnecessary delays and disruption to their journey.

“This particular damaged window meant the train had to be taken out of service for repair causing needless disruption to passengers, something that is preventable and can be avoided.

“Incidents such as these are putting the safety of ou r employees and passengers at risk. I would urge anyone with information on this incident to contact British Transport Police immediately.”

If you have information about the incident please call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. In all calls please quote log B6/NWA of 26/4/13.