Train firm enjoys fall in crime

Security officers have helped to tackle crime on the trains

A train firm says using its own security officers has seen a 8.6% fall in crime during the first six months of this year.

South West Trains saw 4,605 crimes committed in the first half of 2004 compared to 5,038 last year.

The company first introduced three "travelsafe" officers on its trains and stations in 2002 - a number that has now risen to 56.

A spokesman said the officers were "making a real difference".

South West Trains' crime figures Guildford 2003 - 1,041; 2004 - 760 Basingstoke/Bournemouth 2003 - 351; 2004 - 308 Richmond 2003 - 830; 2004 - 759 Portsmouth 2003 - 495; 2004 - 470 Clapham Junction 2003 - 2,321; 2004 - 2,308

The officers work in conjunction with British Transport Police, reassuring passengers, keeping an eye on problems and providing support during major events.

Of the areas where the officers operate, Guildford saw the highest fall in crime at 37%.

Clapham Junction, however, saw just a 0.6% fall, with 4,605 incidents recorded.

Tim Nicholson, chairman of the Rail Passengers Committee for Southern England, said: "Passengers rate security very highly so we are pleased to see the reduction in crime figures."

Superintendent Colum Price, of the British Transport Police, said: "We knew that the Travelsafe scheme was innovative and these figures prove that it is also very effective.

"Partnership is easy to say but far more difficult to achieve and this is a clear example of a partnership that delivers."

Tony Holland, South West Trains' security and information manager, said: "These figures are a great base to build from and continue the work of providing a safe railway."