Train highlights special non-emergency text number to rail users in Northamptonshire

A text number that allows rail users to report non-emergency incidents to the police has received more than 32,000 messages from passengers
SMS ExpressSMS Express
SMS Express

Following its launch, British Transport Police officers have responded to almost 5,000 incidents and recorded just over 2,300 crimes - all as a result of a receiving a text message on the system.

As the 61016 number turns three this month, London Midland, which serves Northampton Railway Station are helping mark the occasion with the introduction of…The SMS Express.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A London Midland train has been wrapped in the British Transport Police text number in a bid to encourage even more people to make contact when they see something they are concerned about on the rail network.

The train came into service last week.

BTP’s Deputy Chief Constable, Adrian Hanstock, said: “We recognise the way people want to communicate with us is changing and no other force in the country takes reports by text message to the extent we do.

“We are proud to offer this service and while we have seen the numbers using it grow steadily each year, we are keen to encourage even more people to text us.”

David Whitley, head of Cross City services at London Midland, said: “Everybody has the right to travel safely and securely across our network.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The 61016 service makes it simple and easy for our passengers to contact the British Transport Police quickly, anonymously and with complete confidence. There is no doubt that 61016 is making a real difference.”

Rugby railway station is also helping us celebrate the text message service’s third birthday.

From today (14 March) passengers will also see a large 61016 banner on the multi-storey car park, as well as doors and windows displaying the number.

Sarah Forrest, Virgin Trains Station Manager at Rugby, said: “At Virgin Trains, safety is always our priority and the British Transport Police’s text number is a great way to help our customers feel safe when travelling.

“We’re pleased to be working with them to promote this initiative and hope that the number of rail passengers using this service continues to grow.”