TEENAGERS have been spotted trespassing on train tracks in a "shocking" image shared by Network Rail in their latest safety campaign.

Network Rail is warning people to stay off the tracks after a rise in trespassing incidents across the Thames Valley and south west since lockdown.

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The train company has said there has been more than 60 reports over the past seven weeks across the Western route, including teenagers playing chicken on the track, a cable theft attempt, someone putting objects on the line and young people sitting on bridges dangling their legs over the edge.

Steve Melanophy, community safety manager for Network Rail, said: "These trespass incidents are shocking, and show how many people are oblivious to the dangers they are putting themselves, their friends or loved ones in.

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"It’s never safe to hang around on the railway or use it to take shortcuts, but sadly too many people ignore the warning signs and take risks that have resulted in tragic consequences.

"We’ve seen a worrying number of incidents at a time where people should be following Government guidelines and staying at home where possible. We are urging people to stay safe and stay off the tracks."

Superintendent Mark Cleland, from British Transport Police, added: "Trespass on the railway is a criminal offence and can lead to a fine or imprisonment.

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"More importantly, the non-public parts of the railway can be a dangerous environment for those who do not have permission to be there.

"Trespass often leads to death and serious injury for those who are ignorant of the inherent dangers and so the message is clear, use common sense, don’t take risks, do not trespass on the railway and in these times, stay safe, stay at home, protect the NHS."

The figures also include 28 level crossing misuse and vandalism incidents.