Thieves who broke into Workington railway station may have been exposed to asbestos

Northern are urging the vandals who broke into the Workington station building overnight yesterday to seek medical advice after they may have exposed themselves to asbestos fibres when they smashed a wall.

Thieves broke into the Workington station on at about 2.30am on Wednesday morning, February 16.

SMASH: The extensive damage caused by the vandals. Picture: Northern

They knocked through a ceiling and adjacent wall on Platform One to access the booking office.

The asbestos, which had been recorded, was sealed safely in the wall before it was damaged.

The area has now been cordoned off and there is no danger to Northern colleagues or customers.

Public Health England advises that anyone who comes into contact with asbestos fibres should seek medical advice.

Chris Jackson, regional director at Northern said: “Significant damage has been made to the ticket office at Workington train station after the break-in.

"It is currently closed while a clean-up operation is underway.

“It is not yet known what has been taken but we are working to establish this.

"If you have any information that could help catch those responsible, please contact the police."