Shocking footage has been released, which shows children running along the lines in front of a train in Syston, forcing the driver to make an emergency stop.
The footage was captured by a train driver, who was forced to stop in order to avoid catastrophe on May 22.
According to Network Rail, who posted the footage online, there have been three separate incidents of trespass in the area over the past few weeks. All incidents have involved large groups of children and it is suspected that they are running down the line to get access to nearby fields to play in.
Elisha Allen, Community Safety Manager for Network Rail’s East Midlands Route, called the behaviour “incredibly dangerous and deeply concerning.”
“We would encourage families across the area to sit down with their loved ones and hammer home the dangers of stepping onto the track,” she said.
“The maximum line speed in this area is 75mph, trains can’t swerve out of the way, and it can take up to the length of 20 football pitches to come to a complete stop after the emergency brake is applied.
Network Rail is urging people of the risks associated with trespassing on the railway. As well as being extremely dangerous, it is also against the law they point out. Offenders could be prosecuted and given a £1,000 fine.
Dave Barker, Inspector for British Transport Police, said: “Trespass is a serious and sometimes deadly offence. Sadly many children and young people think the rail tracks look tempting places to play and don’t consider how dangerous the tracks can be.
“Not only is it a criminal offence to trespass on the tracks, it can have life changing and sometimes fatal consequences. We operate a range of tactics to tackle trespass incidents, and work closely with Network Rail and train operating companies to ensure the safety of the public.”
Anyone who has information about the trespassers or any incidents of railway trespassing in Leicestershire should call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or text them on 61016. In an emergency, people should always call 999.
