A CAMPAIGN has been launched to prevent people dicing with death by trespassing on Renfrewshire’s railway tracks.

Milliken Park, in Johnstone, along with stretches of track in Paisley and Hillington East, have been identified as ‘hotspots’ where people have been putting their lives at risk.

Latest figures show there have been more than 30 incidents of trespassing on tracks in these areas in the last 12 months.

British Transport Police (BTP) and Scotland’s Railway have launched the Shattered Lives campaign to highlight the dangers of trespassing.

Often seen as a youth problem, three-quarters of trespassers are, in fact, adults.

In the last three years, more than 150 adults have either been seriously hurt or lost their lives as a result of trespassing on Britain’s railways.

BTP Temporary Chief Superintendent Gill Murray said: “As the school holidays continue, we’re expecting to see more incidents.

“The railway is full of hidden dangers. Accessing the tracks as a shortcut or to retrieve personal belongings is not only illegal but is also dangerous.

“Too many times we have seen the tragic consequences of people ignoring the warnings about trespassing on the railway and taking risks that have resulted in terrible injuries.”

Liam Sumpter, route director at Scotland’s Railway, added: “That so many people are willing to risk life and limb by trespassing on the railway just for a shortcut or to retrieve an everyday object is of real concern.

“Trespassers seem to recognise that the tracks can be dangerous but, for some reason, think it is okay to risk their own personal safety.

“Every time someone strays onto the tracks, they are placing themselves at risk of serious, life-changing injury or worse.

“The effects of trespass can be devastating, not only for the adult or child in question, but also their loved ones and the wider community.

“We want everyone to know and understand that stepping on the track shatters lives. Please don’t take risks. Don’t leave the people around you to pick up the pieces.”

Scotland’s Railway is also teaming up with the Scottish Football Association to deliver rail safety sessions with local youth teams as part of a summer coaching programme to highlight the dangers of trespassing.

For more information, visit You vs Train.