PARENTS were today urged to help spread the railway safety message to children as the half-term holidays are due to start next week.
Arriva Trains Northern and the British Transport Police want children to know about the dangers of playing near railway lines.
ATN commercial director Heidi Mottram said: "Children might think it could be exciting to fool around near railway lines.
"But it is incredibly dangerous and could result in serious injury or even death.
"By asking more parents to take a few minutes this week to help us remind youngsters about the hazards of trespassing we hope we can persuade them to play safe this half-term break."
Danny Snee, chief inspector of British Transport Police, said youngsters who were old enough to recognise danger should not put themselves at risk.
They should stay away from railway tracks.
"They should understand that if they do ignore the warnings and go on to commit offences they face prosecution," he added.
The Deighton area has been highlighted as one of the region's high-risk spots, with regular reports of children on or near railway lines.
Anyone who sees people trespassing on the rail network should call 0800 405 040.
