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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Neil Shaw

Yobs throw bike onto train track putting lives at risk

Shocking video catches the moment two youths toss a bike onto a busy railway track line – posing a serious risk to passengers' lives.

CCTV footage at Cross Gates station in Leeds captured the youths trying to obstruct the tracks and cause potential derailment.

Network rail shared the 57 second clip on Twitter and branded the children’s actions as ‘absolutely shocking’.

One boy can be seen cycling up to the tracks and leaving his white bicycle on the edge of the platform, seemingly obstructing the line.

A second boy, dressed in black and wearing a mask to cover his face, runs out and throws the bike completely onto the line.

Network Rail are pleading with parents to help educate children on their dangerous actions to help crack down on incidents at stations.

Vicki Beadle, Operations Risk Advisor for Network Rail said: “I was astounded to see this reckless, irresponsible behaviour so close to the tracks at Cross Gates station. The railway is no place for games, and it certainly isn’t a playground.

“Seeing these young people put their lives at risk was a staggering reminder of our collective need to educate everybody about railway safety. I’d urge parents and carers to speak to their children about the devastating consequences of trespass, vandalism and antisocial behaviour.”

Six of the 11 incidents at the Yorkshire based train station have involved young people.

Sgt Rob Pile, British Transport Police said: "This shocking footage should act as a wake up call to parents - we need them to talk to their children and teenagers urgently about the dangers of the railway and the impact of reckless behaviour like this.

"Apart from the obvious danger to themselves, placing items on the tracks can potentially cause a derailment and result in serious injury and potential loss of life to passengers and rail staff.

"We have increased patrols in the area in a bid to deter behaviour like this. Those responsible should know they will be caught and face prosecution.

"You can help us by texting 61016 or calling us on 0800 405040 to report any incidents."

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