Latest news with #NetworkRailScotland
STV News
02-07-2025
- STV News
CCTV captures 'dangerous trespassers' using railway line as shortcut
CCTV footage has captured people 'dangerously trespassing' on a railway line using it as a shortcut. Network Rail said the video shows elderly people and dog walkers 'carelessly' crossing the River Peffery in Dingwall using a railway bridge between Dingwall Canal South and North level crossings, rather than a road bridge situated nearby on Craig Road. Trains pass through the area every day at speeds of up to 65mph, covering a 50-metre distance in less than two seconds. 'This footage is deeply concerning, showing people taking significant risks by using a railway bridge to cross the river,' said Innis Keith, health, safety and environmental director at Network Rail Scotland. 'It's extremely dangerous as trains can't stop quickly or swerve out of the way. A moment's misjudgement could have devastating consequences. 'Not only is trespassing dangerous, but it's also illegal. We're working closely with British Transport Police to identify anyone trespassing and those caught face prosecution and a hefty fine.' Network Rail said it is working with Highland Council to explore the possibility of installing two wooden footbridges on either side of the existing railway bridge, providing an alternative route for pedestrians. Mr Keith added: 'We know people are often just trying to save time or take what seems like the easiest route. But using the railway bridge as a shortcut is incredibly dangerous and against the law. 'We're asking everyone to think twice and choose safety instead. No shortcut is worth risking your life.' The warning comes as Network Rail launches its You vs Train campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the risks around trespassing, showing the real life consequences of being struck by a train. The campaign features an NHS trauma specialist who explains the catastrophic injuries caused by getting hit by a train, in a bid to reduce incidents on the railways. Chief inspector Adam Swallow from British Transport Police said: 'Every year, my emergency services colleagues and I are faced with the awful consequences of preventable railway accidents. And we don't just respond, we remember too. Behind every statistic is a real person – a life needlessly lost or irreversibly changed and a family left devastated. 'As the summer holidays begin and more people are out and about, including teenagers and younger children, we're asking everyone to treat the railway with the seriousness and respect it demands; stay alert, avoid distractions, and never cross except at designated points. It could save your life, or someone else's. 'I'd encourage people to save 61016 into their phones and text us if they need us. In an emergency always dial 999.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
Daily Record
23-06-2025
- Daily Record
Lanarkshire youngsters can feel safer over school summer holidays thanks to new Fearless campaign
Initiative focused on encouraging pro-social choices, preventing violence and raising awareness about the risks of illegal off-road biking. Lanarkshire youngsters can feel safer over the school summer holidays thanks to a new campaign. Fearless, the youth service of the charity Crimestoppers, has launched an initiative focused on encouraging pro-social choices, preventing violence and raising awareness about the risks of illegal off-road biking. Backed by Network Rail Scotland, the campaign gets underway just as schools across the country begin to break up for the summer. As part of the initiative, Fearless will be active on social media platforms most used by young people - including Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram - delivering engaging, youth-focused content that promotes safety and positive decision-making. In addition, outreach events will take place across Scotland throughout the summer, including a presence at TRNSMT, one of the country's most popular music events. Fearless will tour communities over the coming weeks, using interactive sessions to connect with young people and encourage them to speak up safely about crime 100 per cent anonymously. Lyndsay McDade, Fearless Scotland manager at Crimestoppers, said: "We were proud to launch this year's summer campaign with the support of Network Rail Scotland and local partners. "It was a brilliant way to mark the start of what we hope will be a positive and empowering summer for all young people. "The summer holidays can be an exciting time, but we know they can also bring challenges - especially without the routine of school. "This campaign is all about helping young people make positive choices, look out for their friends, and know where to turn if they want to speak up about crime. "From understanding the dangers of off-road biking to preventing violence and promoting prosocial behaviour, we're here to support young people across Scotland to stay safe and to remind them that they can always speak up at 100 per cent anonymously. Always." Minister for Victims & Community Safety, Siobhian Brown, added: "I am pleased that our partner Fearless continue to use their strength of campaigns to drive positive change to encourage young people to stay safe, as well as recognising the dangers of crime and how to get advice and support when they need it. "Scotland remains a safe place to live and I hope the positive choices this campaign promotes resonates with all young people to enjoy a safe summer holiday." Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland, said: "Keeping our young people and communities safe throughout the year, as well as during the summer and school holidays, is a priority for Police Scotland officers. "Police Scotland wholeheartedly supports the Summer Safety campaign and will continue to work in partnership with Fearless and other local and national organisations to help raise awareness of activities that provide opportunities to make positive choices as well as highlight the dangers of becoming involved in some activities." Innis Keith, health, safety and environment director at Network Rail Scotland, added: "We want young people to enjoy their summer safely, and that includes understanding the very real dangers around the railway. "This campaign not only raises awareness but also empowers young people to make informed choices and look out for one another. "We're proud to continue working with Fearless to help keep communities safe and prevent harm before it happens."
Daily Record
23-06-2025
- Daily Record
Crimestoppers launch campaign to tackle violence over summer holidays weeks after Kayden Moy's death
The campaign will be promoted to youths on social media platforms, including Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram. Crimestoppers has launched a new campaign to keep kids safe over the summer holidays. The charity's youth service Fearless wants to engage with youngsters to prevent violence and warn of the dangers of off-road biking. The Scotland-wide campaign, which is backed by Network Rail Scotland, will see the Fearless team active on social media platforms including Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram, to engage with young people during the summer months. The teams will also operate a number of outreach events, including at TRNSMT in Glasgow Green on July 11-13, where kids can speak up about crime anonymously. The initiative comes after the death of 16-year-old Kayden Moy at Irvine beach last month. The youngster was laid to rest this week following the tragedy on May 17. A 14-year-old boy and two 17-year-old boys have appeared in court charged with murder. Police Scotland has also vowed to crackdown on youth violence at Edinburgh's Portobello beach after two people were attacked in the last three months. A rise in violence sparked the Record's Our Kids ... Our Future - our response to a youth violence epidemic. As part of the campaign, we have repeatedly demanded the Scottish Government to invest in young people, so they can be nurtured, mentored and guided in every community. Following Kayden Moy's death last month, Scotland's justice secretary Angela Constance pledged an additional £6m to tackle youth violence. Lyndsay McDade, Fearless Scotland Manager at Crimestoppers, said: 'We were proud to launch this year's summer campaign in Kilmarnock with the support of Network Rail Scotland and local partners. 'The summer holidays can be an exciting time, but we know they can also bring challenges. 'From understanding the dangers of off-road biking to preventing violence and promoting prosocial behaviour, we're here to support young people across Scotland to stay safe and to remind them that they can always speak up at 100% anonymously. Always.' Minister for Victims & Community Safety, Siobhian Brown, said: 'I am pleased that our partner Fearless continue to use their strength of campaigns to drive positive change to encourage young people to stay safe, as well as recognising the dangers of crime and how to get advice and support when they need it. 'Scotland remains a safe place to live and I hope the positive choices this campaign promotes resonates with all young people to enjoy a safe summer holiday.' Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland, said: " Keeping our young people and communities safe throughout the year, as well as during the summer and school holidays, is a priority for Police Scotland officers."
Edinburgh Live
14-06-2025
- Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh rail passengers face travel chaos after 'loss of power'
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Get the latest Edinburgh Live breaking news on WhatsApp Rail passengers have been urged to plan ahead as a loss of power could lead to severe disruption for Edinburgh travellers. Network Rail Scotland took to social media to warn customers of an issue with overhead wires in the capital area. Scotrail also issued an update stating the electric supply between Edinburgh Waverley and Haymarket station had failed. Services will be subject to delays, alteration or potential cancellation. The power loss comes as a weather warning has been put in place for thunder storms as well as flooding across the Edinburgh and Lothians region. Join Edinburgh Live's Whatsapp Community here and get the latest news sentstraight to your messages. Their statement on X said: "We're dealing with a loss of power to the overhead wires in the area around Edinburgh Waverley. "Our team are on their way to investigate the problem now. We'll share another update ASAP." A statement released by ScotRail said: "NEW: Due to a failure of the electricity supply between Edinburgh and Haymarket, services are subject to delay, alteration and cancellation. Sign up for Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox "Please check your journey on our app/website or on JourneyCheck here. " We'll bring you more information and updates on this breaking news story as we get it. In the meantime, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest news, what's on, trending stories and sport.
The Herald Scotland
13-06-2025
- The Herald Scotland
Efforts to improve safety at notorious level crossing stepped up
Despite clear signage, full barriers, lights, audible alarms and CCTV monitoring, Network Rail Scotland said incidents of misuse "continue to occur". So far this year, there have been 18 recorded incidents, including people crossing despite warnings of an approaching train. In 2024-25, there were 32 incidents in total, and 54 in 2023-24. READ MORE: As part of International Level Crossing Awareness Day, a worldwide initiative marked this year on Thursday, June 5, Network Rail level crossing teams are collaborating with British Transport Police to raise awareness about level crossing safety. The action aims to remind the public of simple steps that can prevent serious accidents. Innis Keith, health, safety and environment director at Network Rail Scotland, said: 'Level crossings are safe when used correctly, but misuse can have devastating consequences. 'At Broughty Ferry, we've seen too many potentially dangerous situations. That's why it's important we work together to raise awareness and help people understand how to stay safe. 'It's about protecting lives and making sure no family faces the heartbreak of a preventable tragedy. Staying alert and taking a few careful steps can be the difference between getting home safely and not making it home at all.' Trespass sign at Broughty Ferry level crossing (Image: Network Rail Scotland) Inspector Ashley Forbes of British Transport Police said: 'There is simply no excuse for misusing a level crossing and ignoring safety procedures, and the consequences of trying to beat the system or failing to pay attention are severe. 'You not only put your own life at risk when you fail to treat a level crossing with respect, but also the lives of the passengers and staff of the oncoming train. 'The railways can be incredibly dangerous, which is why people need to do the right thing when using railway level crossings. If you see anyone failing to adhere to the safety procedures and putting themselves and others in harm's way, I urge you to report it to us by texting 61016 or by calling us. Always dial 999 in an emergency.'
