NEARLY 170 people have died in the past 10 years trespassing on the railway.

And with almost half of the people killed under the age of 25, British Transport Police have launched a campaign to educate people.

British Transport Police say the most common reason for trespassing is to take a short cut, followed by thrill-seeking.

A spokesperson said: "But walking along or messing around on the tracks can result in serious life-changing injuries or death.

"We’re doing all we can to keep people safe by patrolling areas we know they’re likely to trespass and prevent them from doing so."

They are working with Network Rail and train operators to reduce trespass by:

  • Improving security across the network and using covert surveillance to catch offenders.
  • Going into schools to warn children of the dangers of trespassing.
  • Putting up posters and signs at trespass hotspots to deter people from going on the tracks.

The spokesperson added: "But we cannot tackle this issue alone. That is why we are urging parents and young people to take a reality check when it comes to trespass. It’s not a game: they are real tracks, with real trains and real life consequences.

"You can help us drive down trespass by talking to your children about the dangers of going on the tracks and making sure you get home safely.

"Don’t let your door be the one we knock on to say your loved one has been killed or seriously injured as a result of trespassing."