Northern Rail reports trains struck 97 objects in 12 months – with some items ‘deliberately’ placed on the track

Northern, which runs services through Ilkeston and across the North of England has said that its trains have struck 97 objects in the past twelve months (Oct 23 – Oct 24), with some items ‘deliberately’ placed on the track.

A statement said that whilst only ten of the recorded incidents caused damage to carriages, each and every one represents a risk to safety. Damaged carriages have to be taken out of passenger service for repair.

Among the items that trains came into contact with were bicycles, a wheelie bin, bricks, fence panels, a garden gate, road signs, shopping trollies and traffic cones, although the statement didn't specifically state where the incidents were on the rail network.

Matt Rice, chief operating officer at Northern, said: “Our trains travel at high speed and any item on the track represents a risk to the train and the safety of everyone on-board. Whilst some items might end up on the tracks due to high winds or accidents – some are deliberately placed there by people with no regard for the safety of others.

“Those people should know that the majority of our trains are now fitted with external CCTV cameras and that footage can be viewed by British Transport Police in real time.

“We would appeal to anyone committing this senseless activity to stop – and remind them that it is a criminal offence to trespass on the railway.”

Anyone who witnesses items being thrown or placed on the tracks should contact British Transport Police immediately by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40. 

Rail users should also download the British Transport Police ‘Railway Guardian’ app, an all-in-one safety app that allows users to report crimes or concerns on the rail network, share journeys with trusted contacts and get access to news, guides and support. 

The app is available to download from Google Play and the Apple App Store.