Please see a letter below from Network Rail and the British Transport Police about the dangers of railway lines.

Dear Parent or Guardian

Trespassing on the railway network is extremely dangerous and endangers not only the lives of those on the track, but also passengers, railway staff and the general public.

Many people – especially young people – fail to understand the danger they put themselves and others in, when they make the choice to stray onto the rail network. We are seeing incidents which involve children and young people:

· Walking along the railway lines

· Throwing stones at trains

· Placing objects on the railway lines

· Using the railway as a playground

I am sure you agree that all of the above activities are extremely dangerous.

The British Transport Police and Network Rail are seeking the support of parents, guardians and the local community to highlight the danger and implications of these activities to help us reduce the number of young people putting themselves and others at significant risk.

To assist with the conversation there are a number of online videos available and range depending on the age group of your child:

www.switchedonrailsafety.co.uk www.networkrail.co.uk/communities/safety-in-the-community/safety-education/ www.youvstrain.co.uk

Key Messages

Trains are ALWAYS running on the railway and can differ in times meaning that you can never predict when a train will pass

The Electricity is ALWAYS switched on around the railway

Always Stop, Look and Listen before using a Level Crossing

DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR CHILDREN ARE?

Trespassing on the railway is also a criminal offence which can involve your child obtaining a criminal record and a fine of £1000.

If you wish to report any information to us, please call us on Freephone 0800 40 50 40 or text the information to 61016.