Children warned of train tracks danger after a rise in trespass incidents

A warning has been issued about children playing on train tracks after a spate of incidents, including youths pushing each other off a platform.

Two boys were spotted trespassing on the west coast mainline near Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, on Sunday while children were also seen trespassing near Dalmeny station in Edinburgh.

The reports followed another incident on June 26 when a group of youths were seen jumping and pushing each other off the platform at Muirend station in East Renfrewshire.

British Transport Police (BTP) Inspector Stewart Strong said: What is very worrying about these incidents is that youngsters simply do not realise the danger they put themselves in.

Every day, we are called to similar incidents and during the summer we record a spike in trespass incidents involving children.

Trains travel at incredibly high speeds and can often approach silently. Before a child has time to react, they could be struck and killed.

My officers have experienced first-hand the devastation families are left with when their child is killed whilst playing on the tracks.

Therefore, I would like to plead directly to parents and carers. Talk to your children and explain to them the hazards of the railway, it is not a playground.''

Officers throughout Scotland regularly give advice to youngsters about the issue.

This year, more than 100 schools in trespass hotspots have been visited by officers from BTP.

As terms finish for summer holidays, BTP and the ScotRail Alliance each record a spike in incidents involving children.

David Lister, safety and sustainability director for the alliance, said: Trespassing is extremely dangerous and can have tragic consequences for those involved.

Trains travelling at speed take a long time to stop and anyone struck by one is likely to be killed or very badly injured.'