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Wednesday 29 May 2019

Flying Scotsman fans urged to stay safe during trip from London to the Surrey Hills this week

Region & Route:

Southern

Fans of the famous Flying Scotsman are being urged to stay off the tracks and enjoy a safe day out when the locomotive tours the Surrey Hills this week.

 

On Thursday 30 May, the heritage steam train is scheduled to run from London Victoria, before travelling between Shalford and Redhill twice – once mid-morning and again in the afternoon.

Network Rail South East, the British Transport Police and other industry partners are warning enthusiasts planning to catch a glimpse of the train to stay off the tracks.

Aside from the obvious risk of being hit by a train, there are many hidden dangers like the third rail, which carries 750-volts to power trains – easily enough to cause life-changing injuries or kill you.

John Halsall, route managing director for Network Rail South East, said: “The chance to see the world’s most famous steam train passing through our countryside is really exciting, but I must warn people to stay safe at all times.

“Never wander onto the tracks because as well as being illegal, it’s full of both obvious and hidden dangers which carry the risk of life-changing injuries or even death.

“If you are planning to see Flying Scotsman, then please take our advice and do so from a safe position.”

Network Rail, British Transport Police and train operating companies will have extra staff at stations, officers on the locomotive and a camera on board to capture any incidents of trespass.

For railway photography enthusiasts, we have some guidelines online to help you stay safe.

Earlier this month, the rail industry launched the latest phase of its You vs. Train campaign, to raise awareness of the railway’s hidden dangers, especially the third rail which carries enough electricity to kill or cause life-changing injuries.

Inspector Becky Warren from British Transport Police, said: “We understand that the Flying Scotsman generates lots of interest and we know the journey throughout the Surrey Hills region will see many head to the railway to see this historic engine pass.

“However, during prior events we’ve experienced  a minority ignoring our advice and illegally trespassing on the tracks to catch a view of the train.

“This is not acceptable and we will always work hard to identify offenders and take appropriate actions. I would remind everyone that the railway is a hazardous environment, and no one should be putting their lives at risk to take photos.

“We will be working closely with Network Rail to ensure this journey is smooth and trouble free.”