British Transport Police officers are appealing for information after children placed rocks, bricks and a cricket bat on the tracks near to Peterborough station.
PC Sean White, the investigating officer based at Peterborough BTP station, said that around 5pm on Saturday, 11 June, a member of Network Rail staff was checking railway access points when he saw three young boys placing objects on the line:
“The member of staff made his way along the tracks to where the group were, however as he got closer they made off over a footbridge leading to Bretton Way.
“He immediately called his control room for trains to be stopped, however in the meantime a freight train passed through and struck the objects, causing damage to its underside and taking it out of service.”
Police have stepped up patrols in the area and are urging anyone with information to get in touch. Officers are also warning children and parents that the railway is certainly not a place to hang about.
PC White added: “Thankfully no-one was injured this time, but I cannot over-emphasise how dangerous an environment the railway is. Anyone who trespasses on the railway is taking a gamble with their own lives, as well as those of the passengers and staff travelling on trains.
“Freight trains travel at speeds in excess of 90mph and do not have the ability to swerve around objects placed on the line that could potentially derail them, or stop suddenly if someone is on the tracks.
“I am urging anyone with information about this incident to contact us and am appealing to parents and adults to emphasise the dangers to your children. If you live near the railway, ask yourself if you know where your children are playing.”
The boys police would like to speak to were described as aged between 6 and 11 years old, wearing casual clothing and hooded sweatshirts.
Anyone with information about this incident should contact BTP on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference B5/LNA of 16/06/2011 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
