Youths in Wales are putting their lives in danger by attempting to ‘surf’ on the side of trains, police have warned.
After a number of incidents in recent weeks, British Transport Police (BTP) has issued a warning on the dangers of messing around on the railway. Officers are particularly concerned by instances of ‘train surfing’ – a dangerous act that has resulted in hundreds of deaths around the world.
Sergeant Steve Dawkins said: “It is hard to believe that anyone could be so mindless as to try to surf off the side of a train – it would only take a minor slip for them to fall between the train and the platform.
“While these youths seem to have no regard for their own safety, they are clearly gambling with their lives.
“I am extremely concerned that if this incredibly dangerous trend continues it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or even killed.”
Among recent incidents was a report of a group of children attempting to surf off the side of a train as it pulled out of Maesteg rail station. A similar incident also occurred at Garth rail station, where children aged between seven and 12 were also reported to be attempting to train surf.
“These are extremely worrying incidents which could quite easily have had dire consequences,” said Sgt Dawkins.
“Sadly, we have already seen examples on other areas where this incredibly dangerous act has resulted in serious injury – I don’t want that scenario repeated here.
“Those who survive this type of incident can rest assured that BTP will do everything possible to trace them and take necessary action. If the danger isn’t a deterrent then I hope the threat of police action might be.
“We simply will not tolerate any behaviour which puts lives at risk. The railway is not a playground and should never be treated as such.”
Sgt Dawkins added: “In response to these recent incidents, we have been working with schools in the area to emphasise to pupils the extreme dangers associated with this act. We’ve also been patrolling stations and on trains, speaking to young people about the dangers of messing around near the railway.
“This is part of a long-term strategy to combat route crime. We will be conducting ongoing work via our Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) to educate youngsters and take action where necessary. I am also appealing to parents and adults to emphasise the dangers to your children, and if you live near the railway, ask yourself if you know where your children are playing.”
