Train operator ‘one’ launched Operation Braveheart on its trains and stations in North London and Hertfordshire, to deter anti-social behaviour and increase passenger safety.
The campaign, which began on January 9, saw ‘one’s team of security guards from Securicor Rail making extra patrols on afternoon and late night trains between London Liverpool Street and Cambridge and patrolling selected stations to help passengers feel safe and secure when traveling by train.
The security guards, who have patrolled the area since spring 2005, seek to deter anti-social behaviour such as vandalism, violence, abusiveness, drunk and disorderly behaviour or drug taking which distresses passengers and can result in delays and damage to stations and rolling stock. The guards are able to remove anyone committing any of the above offences from the train or station to make the environment safer and more pleasant for ‘one’ customers and staff, according to the rail operator.
The guards will also assist station staff by being present (when possible) to ensure the safe closing of ticket offices, asking whether they have encountered any specific problems, and patrolling all areas of stations, and work with the British Transport Police.
What they say
‘one’ West Anglia Retail Manager, Gary Finlayson, said: “The problem of anti-social behaviour and vandalism is a network wide issue which affects the whole industry. Our dedicated team of security guards help to boost security, ensuring that passengers feel safe when using our services and acting as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour.”
The guards wear high-visibility clothing and carry Securicor identification and will travel around the route working to specific rotas, targeting known problem areas and particular train services, including late night services. They will cover the lines and all stations from London Liverpool Street to Cambridge, Hertford East, Enfield Town and Chingford.
