YOUNGSTERS are being warned they are dicing with death by running across train tracks in South Tyneside.
Police were called to the Metro line through Hebburn last week after a worried caller reported seeing 10 youths on the tracks.
Officers spoke to several youngsters and gave them warnings about their behaviour.
Inquiries are ongoing to trace other youths involved so they too can be spoken to.
Police are also warning others to stop risking their lives by playing on Metro lines.
Inspector Ian King, of Hebburn’s neighbourhood policing team, said: “I can’t stress strongly enough how dangerous this is.
“What may be viewed as a game to those involved can have a tragic outcome.
“Youngsters need to know that they are putting their lives at risk for the sake of a prank or dare.”
He added: “We will continue to speak to youths in the area to reinforce the message to not get involved in such a dangerous activity and that we will take appropriate action.”
The warning has been echoed by Metro system owner Nexus.
Rebecca Ditchburn, its youth liaison officer, said: “Metro lines are extremely dangerous places for people to play or walk on.
“Metro trains take up to 150 metres to stop – more than the length of a football pitch – and anyone struck by one will be killed or seriously injured.
“I see thousands of school children every year to educate them about the danger of trespassing on Metro lines.
“We will join with police to visit local schools but, as the Easter holiday approaches, it’s up to parents and grandparents to make sure children know how to stay safe around railway lines.”
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