1st February 2007

RAILWAY AUTHORITIES ARE BEING CALLED ON TO RAISE AWARENESS OF THE RISKS TRAINS CAN POSE

Local MPs - Martyn Jones and Ian Lucas - are calling for Network Rail to run a fresh campaign to highlight the dangers of the rail network after the tragic death of a young girl near Johnstown.

They are making the call after being contacted by local union members who believe the campaign is needed following the incident.

Both MPs are to write to Network Rail to make the case for an awareness raising exercise highlighting the dangers railways pose.

Martyn Jones said:

"The tragedy of the incident at Johnstown has shocked everyone in the village, and beyond.

The dangers of railways have always existed - and sadly will always be there.

"It is so sad that it takes such tragic incident to raise public awareness.

"That is why I want us all to look at where safety improvements and advice can be improved, to avoid this happening again."

Ian Lucas added:

"Everyone has a responsibility to make sure people are kept safe near our railways.

We must all play our part, which is why we are joining together with others to make people aware of the danger railways can pose."

There are two important numbers for railway users and members of the public to remember.

Network Rail has a number to allow people to report incidents such as vandalism, trespass or damage - call 08457 114141.

There is also a number to report Railway Crime - 0800 40 50 40.