Network Rail is reminding people that it is illegal to trespass on railway tracks following a surge of incidents since the coronavirus lockdown began, including some in Wiltshire.
In Dilton Marsh, near Westbury, teenagers were witnessed walking on the line and sitting on the edge of the platform as a train approached. In other areas of the county, young people were caught sitting on bridges dangling their legs over the side.
In North Somerset, teenagers were witnessed playing ‘chicken’ on the track, whilst in Devon, someone had placed objects on the line. In Oxfordshire, a cable theft attempt was made.
In total, Network Rail has logged 65 incidents, including level crossing misuse and vandalism.
British Transport Police superintendent Mark Cleland said: “Trespass on the railway is a criminal offence and can lead to a fine or imprisonment. More importantly, the non-public parts of the railway can be a dangerous environment for those who do not have permission to be there.
“Trespass often leads to death and serious injury for those who are ignorant of the inherent dangers and so the message is clear, use common sense, don’t take risks, do not trespass on the railway and in these times, stay safe, stay at home, protect the NHS.”
