Media centre

Thursday 17 Jun 2004

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF OBSTRUCTING THE RAILWAY

Region & Route:

| Southern

Hove Crown Court today found Mr Simon Taylor, 48 from Polegate guilty of obstructing the railway. He was convicted with 80 hours community service, £100 costs and £250 compensation. On 29 September 2003 Mr Taylor stopped his car across the railway at Berwick level crossing near Polegate, refusing to move it when asked by the signaller.  As a result the signaller had to apply emergency procedures and stop an approaching train at a red signal. British Transport Police Sergeant Rebecca Howson said:  Mr Taylor is lucky not to have received a custodial sentence.  His actions could have caused a serious railway accident.  I hope that this sentence however, is an example to others whose impatience could put the lives of many people at risk.”      For further information about the incident, contact the British Transport Police on 01273 228159.