Wiltshire Police are reminding people of the hidden dangers of trespassing on a railway track after increasing concerns at Swindon and Cricklade Railway.
With Covid restrictions lifting and the summer holidays quickly approaching, the volunteer-run railway is increasing its activity.
Trespassing on the railway is illegal and dangerous and if caught you could be taken to court and face a fine of £1,000.
As well as incidents of people being on the tracks, we have received reports of objects, including bricks, being left on the line, which is in use by the trains as a live track, presenting a clear danger to those using the line.
We have also received reports of criminal damage, including a suspected arson attack on Monday (07/06) morning which we are investigating.
PCSO Lawrence Walker of the North, East and Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This isn’t the first time we have had to bring this to the public’s attention this year and can’t stress enough the dangers of trespassing on a railway line.
“We urge people to stay safe by staying off the lines.
“People should not be walking along the track or along the embankments or stopping on the track to take pictures. You may not realise it, but you are breaking the law and there are hidden dangers.
“While not a mainline track, the heritage site that is the Swindon and Cricklade Railway is still a live carriageway and with lockdown restrictions lifting, it is being used much more frequently.
“This is a fantastic community asset, which is a run by a dedicated team of volunteers and appeal to members of the public to consider their actions and reduce the risk to both themselves and those using the line.”
Anyone who spots someone trespassing on the railway or carrying out acts of criminal damage should call us on 101 with a description of the person, their direction of travel and any information that would assist us in our enquiries.
To find out more about the dangers of railway trespass, visit www.youvstrain.co.uk, the campaign led by Network Rail and the wider rail industry to address the issue of trespass on the railway.
