Train station vandalism claims rubbished (From Bridgwater Mercury)

Train station vandalism claims rubbished

8:20am Monday 5th January 2009

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CLAIMS that security at Bridgwater's train station needs beefing up after alleged vandal attacks have been dismissed this week.

David Redgwell from the Somerset branch of the Campaign for Better Transport says vandals have attacked windows and caused damage at the station - returning to the 'dark days'.

He believes a combination of British Transport Police and an increased presence of railway staff would solve the 'problem'.

However a spokesman for First Great Western, the company which runs the station, said he wasn't aware of any major vandalism issues in Bridgwater.

He said: “Occasionally there are instances of minor vandalism just as there is all over the country but it is very difficult to be there 24/7.

“We do work closely with British Transport Police and we are looking at finding PCSOs to work with them.

“If cases of vandalism are reported to us we will mount operations in specific areas to stop it.”

The Mercury visited the train station last week and could find no obvious signs of damage other than the toilets which were closed due to continuous vandalism, according to staff.

One staff member said she wasn't aware of any vandalism or graffiti and the owners of Bridgwater Model Railways, located at the station, said security was adequate.

Part owner Mike Randle said: “We don't see any serious problems during the day and there are guards here at night - occasionally you get the odd drunk person.”

Branch secretary of the Rail Maritime and Transport Workers' Union Glen Burrows told the Mercury she was not aware of any steps to reduce security and added she hoped there would not be in the future.

Have you seen any obvious examples of vandalism at the railway station or do you think security is already tight enough? Have your say below.

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