UK - train stoned by youths

[John Ashworth]

Train stoned while at standstill
BBC
Page last updated at 12:46 GMT, Thursday, 3 July 2008 13:46 UK

A train and its driver were stoned by youths while it was stranded after hitting a trolley, police said.

A London Midland train from Birmingham New Street to Northampton was at a standstill for about 90 minutes on Wednesday evening.

It had hit the trolley in the Alum Rock area. No passengers were injured before they got off at Adderley Park station and were put on another service.

Two youths aged 13 and 14 were interviewed by police.

'Serious consequences'

They will be helping with further inquiries, British Transport Police said.

Police said the train and driver were stoned by several youths, causing further damage to two train windows.

The train, going between Birmingham and Coventry, came to a halt about a quarter of a mile (400m) after hitting the shopping trolley.

Police said they received a report at 1858 BST of the 1848 service striking the trolley.

A spokeswoman said stone throwing and putting objects on the tracks were serious offences.

"This type of behaviour can have serious consequences," she said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police.