British Transport Police issue urgent warning after spate of incidents near Ecclesfield

British Transport Police is clamping down on anti social behaviour near Sheffield after a series of incidents involving criminal damage and vandalism.

Officers have visited schools in the Ecclesfield area to deliver a stern message to youngsters as well as warning them of the dangers of trespassing on the railway.

Over the past few months incidents in the Butterthwaite Lane area have escalated from trespass and stone throwing to more serious incidents where trains have hit large objects, such as shopping trollies, fence panels and ladders.

Increased patrols are taking place in the area, including plain clothes officers.

PC Darren Martin said: “Incidents of anti social behaviour and criminal damage are a major concern. Placing items on the line and stone throwing are not trivial matters – someone could be seriously hurt and even cause a derailment apart from the disruption to journeys for hundreds of passengers.

“The safety of passengers and rail staff is our priority which is why we are increasing resources in the area and anyone who is caught carrying out criminal damage will be brought before the courts.”

Trespassing on the railway carries its own risks. Every year British Transport Police deal with hundreds of incidents that often result in tragic consequences or life changing injuries.

PC Martin added: “The railway is not a playground – it is strictly out of bounds. I urge parents to check where their teenagers are and remind them of the dangers of hanging around near railway lines.

Superintendent Alison Evans of British Transport Police, said: “Trespassing on the railway can have serious, life-changing consequences for the individual, their loved ones and the wider community. Please stay off the tracks.”

Anyone who spots someone trespassing is asked to get in touch by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40. Always ring 999 in an emergency.

British Transport Police and Network Rail run a hard-hitting safety campaign, You Vs Train, which highlights the devastating consequences that trespassing on the railway can have. Find out more at youvstrain.co.uk.