Fife locations among Scottish 'hotspots' for railway trespassing

A new campaign says Kirkcaldy and Burntisland are among railway trespassing "hotspots" in Scotland.

"Shattered lives", launched by Scotland's Railway and the British Transport Police, is warning of the dangers of trespassing.

Despite trespassing being perceived as a problem among youths, three quarters of trespassers are actually adults.

Figures from the Rail Safety and Standards Board show that more than 150 adults have either been seriously injured or died due to trespassing on the British railway network.

A Network Rail survey says a third of adults in Britain are prepared to risk life and limb to retrieve an everyday object like their mobile phone or wallet, despite being fully aware of the dangers of trespassing.

Graeme Dey MSP, the Scottish Government's Transport Minister, said: "The number of people willing to make the irresponsible decision to trespass on the railway, even if it is only for a few minutes, is quite simply shocking.

"Knowingly wandering onto the tracks, despite being aware of the danger, puts lives at risk.

"The impact of injuries or even worse can impact families, friends and local communities.

"Our simple plea is just don’t do it, a few minutes saved or item retrieved just isn’t worth it."

Liam Sumpter, route director from Scotland’s Railway, said: "These figures both upset and shock me. 

"That so many people are willing to risk life and limb by trespassing on the railway just for a short cut or to retrieve an everyday object is of real concern.

"Trespassers seem to recognise that the tracks can be dangerous but for some reason think it is ok to risk their own personal safety.

"Every time someone strays onto the tracks they are placing themselves at risk of serious, life-changing injury or worse.

"The effects of trespass can be devastating, not only for the adult or child in question, but their loved ones and the wider community.

"We want everyone to know and understand that stepping on the track shatters lives.

"Please don’t take risks. Don’t leave the people around you to pick up the pieces."

Gill Murray, British Transport Police Temporary Chief Superintendent, said: "As the school holidays continue in Scotland, we’re expecting to see more incidents.

"The railway is full of hidden dangers.

"Accessing the tracks as a shortcut or to retrieve personal belongings is not only illegal but is also dangerous.

"Too many times we have seen the tragic consequences of people ignoring the warnings about trespassing on the railway and taking risks that have resulted in terrible injuries."