PARENTS are being urged to warn their children of the dangers of trespassing on railway lines.

The warning from the British Transport Police (BTP) following a steep increase in trespass incidents in across the UK.

In 2021/22, a total of 1,669 trespass incidents were recorded in Scotland. The previous year, there were 1,633.

Last week, a trespasser on the tracks between Barnham and Chichester caused major railway delays. 

Meanwhile, on March 17, a trespasser was hit by a train in the Barnham area. 

The Argus: British Transport Police officers on a train British Transport Police officers on a train

In addition, BTP also dealt with 703 incidents of vandalism in Scotland, compared with 661 incidents the previous year.

Vandalism includes stone-throwing, damage to shelters, fire extinguishers being let off and graffiti.

BTP said officers across the UK, including in Sussex, continue to patrol the network to help tackle the issue and have been engaging with schools to raise awareness of the dangers of the railway.

British Transport Police Inspector Michael Magee said: “The railway is not a playground. Every time someone steps onto the track they are putting themselves at risk of serious, life-changing injury.

“We tend to see a spike in cases of juvenile related trespass and anti-social behaviour during the school holidays.

“Safety is our top priority and we’re asking that we all speak to our loved ones to prevent further damage or serious injury.”

Allan Brooking, community safety manager at Network Rail, said: “Trespassing on the railway can result in life-changing or even fatal injuries.

“We work closely with the British Transport Police, and other partners, to raise awareness of the dangers of trespass and would urge the public to keep off the tracks.”

Here are some recommended advice for parents and carers to share with children:

  • The rail network is never switched off. Electricity powers the overhead cables 24/7.
  • Never anticipate when the next train is due. Timetables are subject to change and only show passenger services – freight trains can run at any time of the day or night and can travel up to 100mph.
  • Trespass is illegal, and anyone caught could face up to £1,000 fine and be left with a criminal record.

BTP and Network Rail are also running a safety campaign entitled You Vs Train, which highlights the consequences of trespassing on the railway.