By Nick Griffiths Crime Reporter

Last updated at 12:13, Saturday, 09 March 2013

Police patrols are being stepped up on Saturday night trains from Newcastle to Carlisle following a rise in complaints about drunken misbehaviour.

Officers said alcohol was the main factor in most of the problems on the journey, caused by “a small number of people acting inappropriately”.

British Transport Police are increasing patrols on the 7.24pm and 9.18pm services after reports from passengers and staff of people onboard both trains “causing disruption and engaging in antisocial behaviour”.

Officers will travel on the trains. Alcohol is not allowed on the 9.18pm service.

Sergeant Jim Walsh said: “We will be increasing police patrols and monitoring passengers wanting to travel on the services.

“The majority of issues we are seeing on board highlight alcohol as the main causal factor.

“For this reason alcohol will not be permitted on the 21.18 train between Newcastle and Carlisle.

“Anyone who is deemed to have consumed too much alcohol or who causes disruption at the station will not be allowed on board.

“Similarly, anyone who is seen drinking alcohol on the train will be reported and removed from the service at the next station.”

Sgt Walsh said officers did not want to ruin anybody’s night out.

“But we have to consider the safety of all rail passengers and staff and their right to use trains without fear of antisocial behaviour and disorder,” he added.

Richard Allan, area director for Northern Rail, which runs the service, added: “Occasionally, the actions of a small minority can disrupt the journeys of others but having officers onboard will in turn help reduce these incidents.”

Police say people can text 61016 to report low level non-emergency incidents onboard the train.

First published at 11:15, Saturday, 09 March 2013
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk