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Thursday 10 Nov 2011

LEICESTERSHIRE WALKERS WARNED TO STAY OFF THE TRACKS

Region & Route:

People who have been spotted walking along a freight line between Coalville and Leicester are today being reminded of the danger of trespassing on the railway.

In the past week four lots of trespassers have been seen on a short stretch of line running from Knighton Junction in Leicester to Burton-upon Trent.

Richard Pedley, community safety manager for Network Rail, said: “Whilst I understand this line may seem to be quiet and infrequently used it is an operational railway and a dangerous place to be. The trains on this route run on an ‘as needed basis’ so there is no way to predict when they will be coming through. They are also often heavily laden freight trains.

“I would urge people to think twice before coming on to the railway. It is not worth putting your life in danger for the sake of saving a few extra minutes.”

Sergeant Karen Barker of British Transport Police based at Leicester station said: “Over the past week, we have seen a number of trespass offences which have been a particular concern for officers.

“The railway is an inherently dangerous environment and should never be treated otherwise. It is certainly not a playground and those who fail to heed the warnings and advice can expect to find themselves being prosecuted.

“Patrols are being stepped up in the area to deter anyone thinking about accessing the dangerous rail line.

“My message to everyone is simple - stay safe and stay out of trouble by staying off the railway.”

The incidents recorded in the past week are:

• Three couples walking their dogs were removed from the line at Kirby Muxloe after walking up the line
• A near miss with a 126-ton freight locomotive travelling light engine and six young men/teenagers wearing dark clothes near to Golf Course Lane, towards Bagworth Junction. Driver described the miss as ‘within feet’ and ‘amazed he did not hit anyone’.
• The Network Rail helicopter captured a construction worker in high-vis clothing taking a short-cut along the railway line at Desford. Camera footage now being examined by the British Transport Police
• Yesterday (08/11) Train driver reported his train was stoned by schoolchildren as he passed through Knighton.

Network Rail and British Transport Police will be stepping up patrols in the area.