Media centre

Tuesday 9 Aug 2005

MP SUPPORTS FIGHT AGAINST RAILWAY CRIME

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

| Wales & Western

Local MP Martin Horwood today supported Network Rail’s summer safety initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of trespassing on the railway at one of Cheltenham’s hotspot areas – Alstone level crossing. Martin Horwood, MP for Cheltenham, said: “I wholly support Network Rail’s efforts to prevent serious accidents on the railway in the Cheltenham area, while also cracking down on trespass and vandalism. I hope the public will offer support by reporting incidents, and that parents will make every effort to ensure their children do not use the railway as a playground.” Over the past 12 months, there have been over 40 reported incidents of railway crime in the Cheltenham area, ranging from trespass and vandalism to placing objects on the track and throwing stones at trains – all of which could have serious consequences.  Hotspot areas include: Alstone level crossing, Cloddymore footbridge, Cheltenham Spa and Churchdown areas (see Notes to Editors). Andy Hancock, Network Rail’s General Manager for the West Country, said: “Alstone level crossing is of serious concern to us, as not only has there been instances of railway crime, it is also frequently abused – in the past three weeks alone we’ve recorded over 50 cases of mis-use.  It’s hard to understand why people risk their lives, as all level crossings are safe for both road and rail users if they are used properly. “Parents should also stress to their children not only the dangers of playing in and around level crossings, but also on the railway, especially if they live near one or use a level crossing regularly.  We don’t want any children to die as a result of playing on the railway this summer.” Based on the premise that many young people are tempted to play on tracks because they are bored and have nothing else to do with their time, Network Rail has developed a ‘No Messin’!’ campaign to encourage a diversion from unsafe activities, rather than trying to change behaviour through shock tactics.  Andy Hancock, adds: “As the infrastructure owner, we have a responsibility to spread the message that the railway can be a dangerous place.  You wouldn’t try to use a motorway as a short cut or a place to hang out – so why the railway?  Our message is clear: No Messin’!”.