Norfolk Police and the Mid-Norfolk Railway security measures last night successfully prevented an attempted metal theft from the railway’s Dereham station.
The incident follows an attempted break in on Wednesday night that was spotted by MNR staff and volunteers who monitor the CCTV system that railway operates. The police were notified and extra precautions were taken.
Last night again the site was targeted with the Police being called at 9.30 pm. On arrival a sweep of the site was carried out with no one being found. Unfortunately the thieves then returned a second time and the police again returned. Once again a search failed to apprehend anyone however damage to security fittings and fencing was found and yet further security precautions will now be installed.
“The last two nights have been very long for all of us involved in these incidents and I would like to thank our staff, many of whom are volunteers for assisting the railway at this difficult time. I would also like to thank Dereham police for their speedy response and reassure our members, supporters and the general public that they are investigating this incident further. The railway therefore appeals to the public and if anybody has any information on this incident can they please contact the local police.” George Saville, MNR General Manager
Metal theft from the national rail network is an ongoing problem and the Mid-Norfolk Railway recognises this and continues to take precautions. It forms one of the three main criminal issues that all railways face. The other two being graffiti and trespass. All of these issues are because of the dangerous nature of accessing the track are criminal offences.
“Incidents such as last night highlight not just the criminal intent of some but also the dangerous nature of unauthorised access to the railway. The MNR might well be closed to the public at the moment but the railway itself is not closed. Currently Direct Rail Services are operating on our track on a daily basis, as they operate Rail Head Treatment Trains on behalf of Network Rail on the East Anglian rail network. They are using our facilities as an operating base. As such trespassing on the line is both a criminal offence, but just as importantly a life threatening risk that is being taken.” Charlie Robinson, MNR Chairman