A TRAIN operator running services in Huddersfield is calling for action to prevent assaults on its drivers.
Arriva Trains Northern, which operates local train services from the town, is backing a national campaign aimed at outlawing verbal and physical abuse of railway employees.
The year-long drive, org- anised by the cross-industry Rail Personal Security group, features posters which will appear at stations across the UK.
Dyan Crowther, managing director for Arriva Trains Northern, said: "We carry more than 40m people each year - and the vast majority of our customers are well-behaved and respectful.
"However, there is a minority of people who think it is ok to verbally abuse our employees - or in extreme cases - even physically assault them.
"This campaign sends out a clear message - it is not acceptable to assault our employees and we will work with the British Transport Police, to prosecute the minority who do offend."
Rail workers have seen an increase in assaults this year.
Across the UK an average of six railway employees are assaulted each day in the course of their duties.
Arriva recently lost its franchise to run trans- Pennine trains through Huddersfield to First.
