Couple Caught Trespassing on Whitby Railway Line
A couple were caught on CCTV standing on railway tracks near Whitby last July, sparking fresh concern over dangerous trespassing incidents.
Thousands Risk Lives for Risky Rail Photos
More than 5,000 trespassing incidents were recorded on UK railways between June and September, with many involving selfie-seekers and photo shoots on the tracks.
Network Rail slammed the trend as “plain stupidity,” warning that taking selfies on active rail lines is life-threatening.
September alone saw 1,239 trespassings—a 17% jump on previous months.
Police and Rail Chiefs Warn of Deadly Dangers
“The railway is not an appropriate or safe setting for a photographic backdrop, no matter how scenic the setting,” said Supt Alison Evans of British Transport Police. “Every time someone strays on to the rail network they are not only putting themselves at risk of serious, life-threatening injury, but also delaying essential journeys.”
Network Rail has launched the hard-hitting “You vs Train” campaign with British Transport Police to tackle the rising tide of young people risking it all for pictures on the tracks.
Downward Trend in Child Trespassing But Problem Persists
At 51 targeted locations, incidents involving children have dropped each of the past two years. Still, rail bosses urge the public to stay vigilant.
Allan Spence of Network Rail said: “Wedding photos or selfies on the track are just plain stupidity. Please, make sure you know the rail safety basics and pass that knowledge onto your loved ones. Lead by example and stay off the tracks.”
