Media centre

Friday 18 Jun 2004

WHO’S WATCHING WHO? NETWORK RAIL AND CRIMESTOPPERS LAUNCH ‘RAILWATCH’ SCHEME

Region & Route:

| Southern

Network Rail and Crimestoppers are launching a scheme on Wednesday 23 June aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of railway crime, the impact it has on local communities and the railway industry, and of course the ways in which the public can help to reduce railway crime. ‘Railwatch’ will be rolled-out over nine stations in the Surrey area (see below).  Each location has been selected because of the reported railway crime activities.  Location Reported incidents in last 12 months Location Reported incidents in last 12 months Epsom Ashtead Leatherhead Feltham 57 41 29 26 Redbridge Lewisham St Johns New cross Tattenham Corner 22 20 17 10 4 The campaign is replicating the success of other Railwatch schemes and Crimestopper campaigns.  Posters will be put up at all of the railway stations, railway crossings, access points and known trespass locations.  Over 1,000 leaflets have been delivered to homes near the stations.  Previous schemes have seen the level crimes reported increase, which in turn indicates that the public have a greater understanding of railway crime issues. - more – Railwatch – 2 Margaret Barker, Network Rail Route Crime Manager said:  “We are confident that we will see a reduction in railway crime activity by working in partnership with Crimestoppers.  Many people do not realise that trespassing and vandalism is a crime punishable with hefty fines and custodial sentences. Raising awareness of this and giving the public the confidence to report the crimes anonymously will make a difference.” Clive Smitheram, Community Safety Officer, Mole Valley Council agreed: “This scheme is going to benefit many groups in our community.  Railway crime is an issue at stations, affecting passengers and also the communities around the stations.  ‘Railwatch’ will raise awareness and working together will help to reduce the anti social crimes which take place on and around the railway.” Jane Reay, Crimestoppers Director of Communications comments: “Crimestoppers exists to help create a safer environment for everyone and allow people to go about their daily lives without fear of crime.  We are therefore delighted to be working with Network Rail and look forward to seeing Railwatch have a significant impact on railway safety.” The launch of ‘Railwatch’ coincides with National Railway Crime week (21-27 June).  The aim of the week is to raise awareness with the public, parents, children and other key stakeholder groups of the problems of railway crime and how the industry is tackling them.  PHOTO AND INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY Wednesday 23 June 2004