Vigilance plea after derailment bid

Jan 11 2008 by Jean Parry, South Wales Echo

A WEEK on from an attempt to derail a passenger train, community leaders for the area have underlined an appeal to the public to remain vigilant for any repeat behaviour.

The Labour AM for Caerphilly Jeff Cuthbert has described as “mindless” those responsible for deliberately placing an obstacle on the railway line near Llanbradach last Friday.

As a result, the 60 passengers on the train had to leave the stricken engine after it jumped, lifted and landed back on the track.

Mr Cuthbert said: “This was a very serious incident and I am grateful that no-one was seriously hurt as a result. The Rhymney Valley line is a very good and frequent service for the people across Caerphilly and we cannot allow a small minority to endanger the general public.”

He added: “I ask people throughout Caerphilly to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or anti-social behaviour on train lines to the British Transport Police. There is a significant reward for anyone who offers information leading to arrest and conviction.”

His comments have been echoed by Llanbradach Plaid Cymru Coun Colin Mann who said he was disgusted by the reckless actions last Friday.

He said: “It is difficult to believe that anyone can be so foolish as to place so many lives in danger. There can be no excuse for this type of vandalism.”

New weapon against yobs: Page 18

Truth about attacks on our trains: See tomorrow’s Echo