TRESPASSERS on Wrexham and Flintshire railways have been warned their actions may lead to "serious and life-ending consequences."

Freedom of information data obtained by the Leader from British Transport Police shows the total number of offences reported as having happened on trains and at railway stations since the beginning of 2021 to date in both counties.

The figures confirm a total of 74 offences were committed in Wrexham over that time period, and 102 in Flintshire - with the most common crime in both areas being railway trespass (22 in Wrexham and 26 in Flintshire), followed by assault and damage.

Sergeant Antonio Carrino from British Transport Police said: “Trespassing on the rail network is something we take extremely seriously. 

"Not only is it illegal, but the railway is full of hidden dangers that can result in serious and life-ending consequences. 

"We continuously work with train operators, partners and local communities to raise the awareness of these dangers and we always take action against those who trespass whenever we can."

Sgt Carrino outlined the force's approach to tackling assaults, adding: "No passenger travelling on the network, or those working on the railway, should ever be subjected to violence in any way shape or form. 

"Luckily, this is rare, but one incident is one too many.  

"We strategically position uniformed and plain clothed officers across the network at key times and dates to ensure the safety of passengers and rail colleagues.  

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"With station-based CCTV and CCTV on trains, we are increasing our visibility across the network.  

"In addition, we support the use of body-worn cameras for our rail colleagues that not only record incidents, which we can then use from a legal perspective, but they also act as a deterrent in the first instance to help diffuse situations.

“We encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses any crime onboard a train or at a station to report it to us by texting 61016, calling 0800 40 50 40 or via our free Railway Guardian app. Always call 999 in an emergency.”