POLICE and rail bosses are stepping up their bid to rid East Lancashire's train lines of vandals and trespassers.

North Western Trains are teaming up with transport police to launch an information line as the war against the trackside vandals hots up.

Transport chiefs are worried about the increase in the number of potentially dangerous incidents across East Lancashire.

In recent months youths have blockaded lines with concrete blocks and rolling stock has suffered thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Anyone who sees people risking their lives by crossing lines, placing objects across tracks or throwing missiles at trains can use the Railwatch line.

North Western Trains are also calling on people to report vandal attacks on stations and railway equipment.

Members of the public who spot any suspicious activity can speak to transport police direct on the new phone line.

A high profile campaign is being launched to publicise the campaign and information can be found at stations and on trains. Houses near train lines will also be leafleted.

The move follows the decision to have police on duty with train drivers and the launch of an anti-trespass drive.

A spokesman for North Western Trains said: "We have to put a stop to crime on the line.

"It costs us all - delays on our trains, damage to property and lives.

"There is also the trauma to our train crews and other staff either as targets or in having to deal with the aftermath of running someone over."

Inspector Frank Melling, of British Transport Police, added: "We are working together with all parts of the railway industry to combat this nuisance."

The Railwatch number is 0800 40 50 40.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.