CHILDREN are being warned about the dangers of playing on rail lines, following a sharp increase in railway crime.

Network Rail is becoming increasingly concerned about the growing number of incidents of trespass and vandalism in the Chippenham area.

Roy Hamlin, Network Rail's general manager for the west, said: "Over a third of these incidents in the past year have involved young people.

"With the days getting lighter, it's easy to understand why children want to play outside but it's hard to understand why some risk their lives playing on dangerous railway tracks.

"We implore parents and guardians to make sure their children understand the dangers of playing on the tracks. We don't want any child to die as a result of playing on the railway this Easter."

Since April last year there have been 19 recorded railway crime incidents in Chippenham, 27 in Trowbridge and a number in Melksham and Bradford on Avon.

These crimes include not only trespass and vandalism, but also putting objects on the line and throwing them at trains.

The problem has become so bad that many schools in north and west Wiltshire have received letters from Network Rail informing them of the high level of incidents, and a railway crime education manager is visiting some schools. The company is aiming to show children the consequences of railway crime can be devastating not only for the trespassers but also for passengers and railway staff.

Cllr John Scragg, mayor of Chippenham, said he was concerned about the number of incidents on the railway in the town.

He said: "There are about four trains every hour going through Chippenham, plus heavy freight, so if children are playing on the line it is incredibly dangerous, and I'm sure the drivers would not be able to see them until it's too late.

"Playing near the line is also dangerous because in some parts of Chippenham there is very little room between the track and the side. People should remember they can end up being charged with manslaughter if they put an object on the track and it causes a disaster."

Fearing many young people are tempted to play on the railway because they are bored and have nothing else to do with their time, Network Rail has developed a campaign to encourage a diversion from unsafe activities, rather than trying to change behaviour through shock tactics. Called No Messin'!' it includes a website, www.no-messing.co.uk offering information, entertainment and competitions.

Sgt Andy Porter, from the British Transport Police, said: "Over the Easter period we will be putting on extra patrols."