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Wednesday 14 Sep 2016

Children learn how to stay safe using the railway in Norfolk

Region & Route:

| Eastern: Anglia

| Eastern

| Southern

Children at a school in Kings Lynn, Norfolk, took part in a presentation and quiz about railway safety yesterday (Tuesday 13 September) as part of an afternoon assembly.

Staff from Network Rail talked to children from Greyfriars Primary School in London Road, Kings Lynn, about the dangers of trespassing on the railway, how to stay safe at the station and how to use level crossings safely.

Staff also explained the dangers of being distracted when at the station or using a level crossing, for example by listening to music or using a mobile phone.

Kat O’Malley, Network Rail’s community safety manager for Anglia, said: “These days, most young people have a mobile phone and listen to music, which can be a distraction when using the railway. In Norfolk trains travel at speeds of up to 80mph, so not paying attention when near the railway can have serious consequences. Today we had the opportunity to talk to young children about how they can stay safe at the station or when using a level crossing.”

Diane Marshall, assistant head teacher, said: "This is particularly important to our children as many of them cross over level crossings on their daily journey to school. The rail safety presentation and quiz engaged them well. They answered all the questions enthusiastically and with a high rate of success. Much was learnt by all."

Parents can find out more about keeping their children safe on the railway at  http://www.networkrail.co.uk/safety-education/information-for-parents/