News Release
Dangers of gathering on disused railway lines
Dated: 13 Apr 2012
Police are warning youngsters of the dangers of gathering on disused railway lines.
The message comes following a fire on the rail platform outside the Royal Mail enquiry office, on Earls Way, in Team Valley, next to disused lines.
Youths have been seen congregating in the area, however, officers are keen to point out the dangers of being next to the lines.
Darren Adams, Acting Inspector for South Gateshead, said: "While these are disused lines they still connect to live lines and overhead cables.
"It is also an unsafe environment for people to be congregating in so we would advise youths to stay away.
"With the Easter holidays underway we'd also ask parents are aware of where their children are going and to ensure they reinforce the message to keep out of any areas posing a potential danger to their safety such as the disused lines.
"We will be patrolling the area and anyone found on the site will be moved on. Anyone committing any offences will also be dealt with appropriately."
Police are urging anyone with information on the fire, which happened between 7pm and 9pm, on Monday, April 9 and is being treated as arson, to come forward.
People can contact police on 101, extension 69191 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.