Bank Holiday dispersal orders in force in Leeds as police crack down on anti-social behaviour

The British Transport Police disruption team will be targeting the railway lines and stations in a bid to deter trespassers and prevent route crime.

Working with partners Network Rail and Northern, the team, made up of uniformed and plain clothed officers, will be cracking down on railway trespass and ensuring children and young people keep safe and away from the railway.

> Woodhouse Moor Hyde Park: Anger as crowds gather for a second evening after warm weatherInspector Richard Price said: “This area usually sees a spike in cases of youth related trespass when the nights get lighter and school holidays begin.

“However, this year our concerns are more acute, especially as we are not able to get into schools ourselves to pass this message on to children directly,”

“The disruption team has a comprehensive and in-depth geographical knowledge of the area and know which hotspots attract bored youngsters.

“But we also want parents and guardians to help us by making their children aware of the dangers of trespassing on the railways and sure they know their whereabouts when they’re not at home.

“Trespassing on the railway, placing obstructions on the line, or throwing items at passing trains, can have serious, and even fatal consequences. It’s vital that people realise they are dicing with death by messing around near the railway.”

> "Don't throw caution to the wind" warns Leeds City Council as city heads into bank holiday weekendThere are two separate authorisations in place for the weekend, BTP said.

The first will cover the footprint of Leeds Railway Station and the second will cover the footprint of three stations on the Wharfedale Line including Ilkley, Ben-Rhydding and Burley-in-Wharfedale.

> Leeds Beckett University lecturer who has autism is challenging stereotypesSpeaking to the YEP, BTP said: "This is following a rise in ASB at these locations in recent weeks following the relaxing of lockdown restrictions.

"Both authorities will come into force from 9am on Friday morning and will be reviewed on Sunday."