'Reckless and dangerous' youths '˜dicing with death' after train hits concrete blocks placed on Peterborough tracks

The incident involved a CrossCountry service travelling between Peterborough and Cambridge, but no one was injured and no significant damage was caused to the train.

The “completely reckless, dangerous behaviour” took place on Saturday, March 19 at around 12.20pm underneath the Frank Perkins Way overbridge near Beluga Close, Fletton.

In information coming to light now, four teenagers - approximately 15-years-old - were seen placing concrete troughing lids (lids that cover signalling cables which run next to the railway line) on the tracks before running away.

PC Daniel Hanna said: “The train struck a number of concrete troughing lids and a tree branch which had been placed across the tracks. Fortunately, no one was injured which was extremely lucky.

“We investigated a similar incident in the same location in November last year and are looking into if the two are linked.

“The group ran off towards Stanground, Peterborough, when the train hit the concrete. Not only are they risking their own lives trespassing on the tracks, but also the lives of passengers and staff on the train.

“This was completely reckless, dangerous behaviour and we would like your help in tracing those responsible.

“If you live in the area please also speak to your children about the dangers of the railway and the consequences of their actions to them and others.

“It is believed the group may have photographed themselves on the railway line and I am also keen to hear from anyway who may have seen these images on social media.”

If you have any information contact the British Transport Police on 0800 405040 or text 61016, quoting reference 192 of 4/4. Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.