British Transport Police (BTP) is urging parents and carers to warn children and young people of the dangers of trespassing after a ‘near miss’ and other serious trespass incidents around Wollaton, Nottinghamshire.
Yesterday afternoon, (May 19) two children, described as 12-years-old and wearing dark clothing and hooded tops, ran in front of a train, causing the driver to apply emergency brakes.
The emergency action has been recorded as an official near-miss, meaning death or injury would have likely otherwise occurred.
Three days earlier, a pile of debris was discovered on the line near Trowell.
Investigations are ongoing to establish whether it had been thrown onto the line or placed there. On a separate occasion, youths were seen placing items on the track near Courtney Close.
BTP Nottingham Inspector Ellis Turner said: “Too many times we have seen the tragic consequences of young people ignoring the warnings about trespassing on the railway and taking risks, resulting in terrible injuries or death.
“It’s vital parents and guardians play their part and ensure they know where their children are and what they are up to.
“Passengers and the public continue to be our eyes and ears and they can help us by reporting any concerns or incidents by texting us on 61016 or calling 0800 405040.”
Schools in the immediate area have been contacted to raise awareness of these incidents and to encourage communication with children, parents and carers. Additional BTP and rail safety patrols are operating.
BTP works closely with the rail industry to educate young people about the dangers on the railway and would urge the public to keep well off the tracks. A hard-hitting safety campaign, run with Network Rail, called ‘You Vs Train’, highlights the devastating consequences that trespassing on the railway can have. Find out more at youvstrain.co.uk
Please share this information with family and friends.