Warning issued after children spotted lying on train tracks

British Transport Police have issued a warning to parents after two children were spotted lying on train tracks in Glasgow.

The two youngsters were reported to be lying on tracks near Hillington after a train driver on the Ardrossan Harbour to Glasgow Central service feared he had hit them.

A Police Scotland helicopter conducted a search which fortunately showed they had not been struck by the train.

Separate incidents have also been reported of children trespassing near Paisley Gilmour Street Station.

At Falkirk Grahamston Station, children were spotted standing on a bridge trying to touch overhead wires.

As a result, British Transport Police (BTP) are urging parents and carers to warn children and young people of the dangers of trespassing.

Head of Operations for BTP in Scotland superintendent David Marshall said: “This type of behaviour is incredibly dangerous. Trains travel at high speeds, have a long stopping distance and they cannot swerve out of the way.

“Some of the railway is also electrified, meaning overhead power lines are installed which carry 25,000 volts. Coming into contact with this equipment or being hit by a train would have life changing consequences, cause devastating injuries and can be fatal.

“It’s extremely concerning that there have been these incidents over the weekend. Too many times we have seen the tragic consequences of children ignoring the warnings and taking risks that have resulted in terrible injuries or death.

“We are asking parents and carers to speak to their children about the dangers and how important it is to stay safe. BTP will be conducting additional patrols across the network in response to these recent incidents, and anyone found to be trespassing will be prosecuted.

“Normally BTP officers would be visiting schools across Scotland to meet children face to face and talk to them about how we keep people safe on the railways, and how they can keep themselves safe.

“Due to Covid we are unable to visit schools, so I strongly urge parents and carers to check where their children are going and remind them of the extreme dangers posed by the railway.”

Anyone who spots someone trespassing is asked to get in touch with BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40.