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Friday 17 Apr 2009

RAIL SAFETY EVENT STEAMS INTO LIVINGSTON

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Up to 2,000 young people will descend on Inveralmond Community High School on 22 July as Livingston plays host to ‘No Messin’ Live!, a massive free event run by Network Rail.

Now in it’s fourth year, ‘No Messin Live!’ makes its first stop in West Lothian this summer, with the goal of getting the railway safety message across to kids using a positive, fun, inclusive style.

The major event, hosted in partnership with West Lothian Council and the Community Justice Authority, will give young people the chance to take part in activities they’ve never tried before as well the sports and games they love. The events will include a Game Zone, DJ mixing, boxing, wrestling, dance, street soccer, art wall, Creative Creatures motion animation, skate park, TV and music.

In addition, a live stage will give local bands a chance to profile their talent and football free-styling expert, Colin Nell will be on hand to demonstrate his skills and share his techniques.

Mark Henderson, Network Rail’s community safety manager for Scotland commented:

“Across Britain, over 5,000 young people a year commit crimes on or near the railway and we know that, in most cases, they blame boredom for their actions. The summer holiday period is particularly concerning due to the long days and perceived lack of activities.”

“The whole point of ‘No Messin!’ is to give kids who might otherwise be playing near the railway a chance to try new activities and sports and show that there are plenty of clubs and like-minded people in the area who will provide a much better outlet than playing near the tracks. Our aim is to create a sustained relationship with each of these clubs to create long term benefits for the local community.

“West Lothian is in the middle to a rail revolution, with double tracked services already operating and a new line and electrification on the way in the next two years, so it’s vital that we get the rail safety messages across to local youngsters early.

West Lothian Council Leader Peter Johnston added:

“This is a fantastic event and we are delighted to provide Network Rail with our full support.

“The event combines great entertainment with a serious safety message, which has already proved to be worthwhile in other areas in Scotland.”

Chair of the Community Justice Authority, Councillor John Muir, added: “I’m sure that the ‘No Messin’ event will provide clubs and young people in West Lothian with an opportunity to have a fantastic and worthwhile day out.”