Police visit schools to increase awareness of dangers of train vandalism

The force warned it was only by chance that someone had not been killed by the criminal behaviour at Swinton and Sheffield.

The youths involved have been warned that CCTV will be used to identify them as officers work with South Yorkshire Police.

BTP’s PC Darren Martin said: "Throwing items at passing trains is incredibly dangerous and those responsible can be assured they will face the consequences and be brought before the courts, whatever their age.

“Only recently, a train driver was badly injured when an item thrown at his train shattered glass in his face.

“Those responsible should ask themselves how they would feel to have caused serious injury to a passenger or driver.

“Could they live with that on their conscience?

“This is not harmless mischief.

“Throwing stones at trains is a criminal offence and can have horrific consequences. It’s only by pure chance that no one has, as yet, been injured or worse.

“I urge parents in the area to help us by making sure they know where their children or teenagers are.”

Anyone with information about the incidents can contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 405040. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.