British Transport Police to ramp up patrols across Scotland's rail network over Christmas to tackle abuse of frontline staff

British Transport Police (BTP) will ramp up patrols across Scotland’s railway network over the Christmas period to tackle anti-social behaviour and ensure Covid-19 government guidelines are followed.

The festive plan, in partnership with Transport Scotland, comes after an increase in incidents - including verbal abuse of frontline staff - last month which resulted in more patrols.

Travel restrictions will be eased between December 23 and 27 and the public are urged to only travel when necessary and ensure face coverings are worn and social distancing maintained.

David Marshall, BTP superintendent and head of operations in Scotland, said: “We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour on the network and we will be increasing our visibility patrols to ensure the railway remains a safe place to travel.”

British Transport Police patrols will be stepped up across the rail network.

Michael Matheson, cabinet secretary for transport, said: “Abusing any frontline staff, especially those keeping services moving for other key workers, is unacceptable at any time, never mind at the present while we continue to tackle the ongoing impacts on the pandemic.”

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