Media centre

Wednesday 17 Aug 2005

MP BACKS FIGHT AGAINST RAILWAY CRIME

Region & Route:

Eastern: Anglia

| Eastern

Local MP Nigel Waterson today backed Network Rail’s summer safety initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of trespassing on the railway in Hampden Park and Eastbourne. Nigel Waterson, MP for Eastbourne said:  “I am delighted that Network Rail is bringing its No Messin’! campaign to Hampden Park, Eastbourne. It is very important that children understand the dangers of crime and trespass on the railway network, far too many are hurt each year in needless accidents because they trespassed. I think No Messin’! is a great way to inform children how dangerous it can be to trespass and the event has my total support.” Since January there have been nearly 100 incidents of railway crime in the Eastbourne area, ranging from trespass and vandalism, to objects being placed on the track and missiles being thrown at trains, all of which can have serious consequences. There will be a range of activities on offer at the two day No Messin’! Live event including: rugby, extreme frisbee, wrestling, athletics and basketball to show children safe alternatives to playing on the railway. The Network Rail helicopter will also be putting in an appearance to show people the latest tool being used in the fight to combat railway crime. Network Rail Route Director Andrew Munden said: “All children want to have fun, particularly during the school holidays.  But we have a real problem in the Eastbourne area with children risking their own lives and those of others by trespassing on the railways, placing objects on the track and even throwing missiles at trains.  No Messin’! Live showcases fun activities and sports children can try out during the summer holidays.  Hopefully they will be inspired by the event and stay away from the tracks for the rest of the summer and beyond.”