Media centre

Friday 16 Sep 2005

REWARD OFFER – RAILWAY VANDALS HUNTED

Region & Route:

Network Rail and Virgin Trains are offering a substantial cash reward after two vandals built an obstruction on the railway line at Goldthorpe risking derailing a train. The reward will be paid for information leading to the successful prosecution of the offenders following the incident that took place near Goldthorpe Station.  Vandals deliberately placed tyres, including the metal rims, on the line with the intent of obstructing a train. The incident happened at around 13.45 on Tuesday 13 September.  The 09.00 Glasgow Central to Plymouth Virgin Trains service struck the pile of tyres resulting in damage to the train’s fuel tanks. Police are anxious to trace two youths who were seen in the area at the time of the incident.  Both are described as:

• White male
• About 14 – 16 years old
• Slim build
• 5.02 – 5.04 tall

  Both were wearing white or light coloured baseball caps and dark trousers.  One had a distinctive top on, which was either dark blue or black with white sleeves.  Anyone who recognises the youths from these descriptions or has further information is asked to contact the British Transport Police free and in confidence on 0800 405040. Graham Botham, General Manager, Network Rail said: “We are not prepared to tolerate any acts of vandalism on our network.  With our industry partners we are committed to educating people about railway safety and ensuring that those who ignore these warnings and commit crimes on the railway are brought to justice.” Phil Bearpark, Deputy Managing Director, Virgin CrossCountry added: “The vandals responsible deliberately attempted to obstruct a train.  Their actions risked the safety of the travelling public and could have resulted in a catastrophic incident. The reward we are offering reflects the seriousness of this crime and I would urge anyone with any information to come forward.”