Rail operators and police are asking customers to make sure anti-social behaviour doesn’t put them on the naughty list this year.
It that special time of year, full of festive fun and good cheer. It is also the time that people across the North of England and Scotland visit friends and family, go to the markets and do the all-important Christmas shopping. This means the rail network will get a lot busier, with trains and stations more crowded than usual. This can be a frustrating time for many, but TPE is asking customers not to be a Grinch to fellow rail users or staff.
To keep spirits bright there will be a visible increase of British Transport Police (BTP) officers on trains and at stations, with an emphasis on Fridays and Saturdays. The patrols will be in place to tackle problematic behaviour and to reassure those out and about enjoying the festivities.
Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Service and Operations Director at TransPennine Express, said: “Christmas is a great time of year and brings a real buzz along our network and at our stations.
“We want customers to have fun and enjoy the Christmas festivities, but we also want to ensure that the fun is not spoiled by any anti-social behaviours. To help keep everyone safe, we are working closely with BTP, who are there to make sure you have the best experience whilst travelling with us this Christmas.
“Most of all, please respect each other and all our rail colleagues who help you get home safely. Sometimes, the added pressures of Christmas can make travelling a stressful experience, but we want everyone to enjoy this time of year and we need your help to do so.
“I hope everyone has a fantastic Christmas and helps us spread some Christmas cheer wherever they might travel with TPE.”
Supt Lorna McEwan said: “You can expect to see an increased police presence on the railway now that the festive season has arrived. We want everyone to enjoy Christmas shopping and parties safely and with consideration for others.
“We’ll be working with our partners across the network to ensure passengers and staff remain safe – something we do every day of the year, 24/7.
“Any anti-social behaviour or crime on the railway will not be tolerated.
“Our specialist officers are looking out for you, whether you can see them or not. If you have any concerns while travelling you can text us discreetly on 61016. In an emergency always call 999.”
Chris Jackson, Regional Director at Northern, said: “Our customers and staff have the right to go about their business without the fear of intimidation, verbal or physical abuse. Anti-social behaviour is unacceptable, and we will work closely with British Transport Police to bring perpetrators to justice.”
If you do witness any anti-social behaviour, please call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or through text on 61016.
Photo credit: Jonny Walton
