East Midlands Railway (EMR) is urgently appealing for public assistance after vandals smashed the windscreen of a train and dropped building materials onto the tracks near Loughborough.

In recent weeks, multiple incidents have taken place near Allsops Bridge, resulting in train damage, delays and serious risks to lives.

The first incident occurred on 3 February when a large scooter was thrown off Allsops Bridge, damaging a train as it passed underneath.

Later that month, on 16 February, several items of builders’ waste and masonry were dropped from Allsops Bridge onto the track, and a rock was also thrown at a train.

The following day, a large object was again thrown from the bridge, this time smashing the windscreen of a train and seriously endangering the safety of customers and EMR staff.

The incidents affected 21 trains, leading to 214 minutes of delays. 

Danielle Clarke, Community Safeguarding and Security Manager at East Midlands Railway, said: “These acts are not pranks or a bit of harmless fun, but incredibly dangerous crimes that put customers and staff at serious risk of injury or worse. They also lead to trains being damaged, delayed, and services being cancelled.

“Even though we are putting measures in place to help address the issue, the public can also play a really important role. If they see any items being thrown at trains or someone placing objects on the track, they should contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40.”

Dan Matthews, Head of Operations Delivery for Network Rail, said: “These acts of vandalism not only put lives at serious risk but also cause significant disruption to our rail network.

“We work closely with train operators like EMR and British Transport Police to prevent such incidents and catch those responsible. We urge anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour on or around our railways to report it immediately.

“The safety of passengers and railway staff is our top priority, and we will not tolerate actions that compromise this.”