Published on: Friday, 26 May 2017
Last updated: Wednesday, 31 May 2017
Train operator Greater Anglia is warning people to be vigilant when near the tracks following an increase in the number of trespass incidents on its network.
The number of trespass incidents on the Greater Anglia network has increased 16% year-on-year from 2015-6, with more than 500 reported incidents taking place in 2016.
Trespass incidents involve a member of the public being on the tracks without permission.
Jay Thompson, Head of Safety, Security and Sustainability, Greater Anglia, said: “Trespass incidents on our network are incredibly dangerous. Anyone who trespasses on the railway risks their life. The dangers may not always be obvious.
“We will continue to work with the British Transport Police and Network Rail to identify and take appropriate action against those who do trespass. If anyone witnesses any trespass incidents on our network, they should report this to the British Transport Police immediately.”
If a customer drops something on the tracks, they should contact a member of staff who will be able to help them. If they try and retrieve the item themselves, it can be very dangerous and they run the risk of serious injury. We would encourage parents to keep a close eye on their children as the holidays approach and keep them away from the tracks.
Inspector Nia Mellor from British Transport Police, said: “The dangers of trespassing onto the tracks cannot be overstated. Trains travel at incredibly high speeds and can approach silently, before you have time to reach you may be struck, seriously injured or even killed.
“Every single day we are called to the tracks because a train driver has had to sound their horn or apply their emergency brake in a desperate bid to avoid someone on the line, who then run off, seemingly unaware of the danger they have put themselves in.
“I have seen first-hand the consequences that taking a shortcut over the tracks has, and the heartbreak and suffering families and loved ones are left with. Please never expose yourself to this risk and stay well away from the tracks.”