POLICE are reminding people of the dangers of trespassing on a railway.

This follows concerns about people crossing the tracks and vandalising the Swindon and Cricklade Railway.

Trespassing on the railway is illegal and dangerous and, if caught, trespassers could be taken to court and face a fine of £1,000.

The force has received reports of objects, including bricks, being left on the line which is in use as a live track for trains.

PCSO Lawrence Walker said: “This isn’t the first time we have had to bring this to the public’s attention this year and can’t stress enough the dangers of trespassing on a railway line.

“We urge people to stay safe by staying off the lines. People should not be walking along the track or along the embankments or stopping on the track to take pictures. You may not realise it, but you are breaking the law and there are hidden dangers.

“While not a mainline track, the heritage site that is the Swindon and Cricklade Railway is still a live carriageway and with lockdown restrictions lifting, it is being used much more frequently.

“This is a fantastic community asset, which is a run by a dedicated team of volunteers and appeal to members of the public to consider their actions and reduce the risk to both themselves and those using the line.”

Anyone who spots someone trespassing on the railway or carrying out criminal damage should call 101 with a description of the person, their direction of travel and any information that would assist police in their enquiries.

To find out more about the dangers of railway trespass, visit www.youvstrain.co.uk, the campaign led by Network Rail and the wider rail industry to address the issue of trespass on the railway.