POLICE have had to deal with about 700 incidents and crimes at York Railway Station so far this year – including drunks, violent attacks, trespassers on the line and suicide attempts.

The figures obtained by The Press through a Freedom of Information request to the British Transport Police (BTP) give an insight into the offences committed at the railway station since January 1 this year.

Drunk and disorderly offences were one of the highest recorded offences – with 48 separate incidents in or around the station so far this year.

Other crimes included 30 incidents of violence, three cases of suicidal people reported to BTP, 45 incidents of theft from people or cars and a further six thefts of rail property, eight cases categorised under mental health, five reports of criminal damage and an incident involving a dangerous weapon.

Cycle theft continued to be a problem with 17 incidents reported. There were 15 incidents of trespassers, two incidents involving a firearm and three sex attacks reported to police.

BTP also dealt with three people wanted on warrant, five abandoned vehicles, seven crashes in the railway grounds, 73 public order offences and 27 people who had either collapsed or become trapped.

There were 91 lost property cases, eight incidents relating to animals or wildlife and five incidents where smokers flouted restriction rules.

BTP chief inspector Derek O’Mara said crime had fallen at York station.

“York is an exceptionally busy station and railway transport hub,” he said. “Despite increasing number of passengers using the station, crime has reduced which is great news.

“It is a safe place to work and travel, and the chances of becoming a victim of crime are very low. However, we are not complacent.

“Passengers and rail staff have the right to expect a safe and secure rail network and we will continue to work hard to deliver a safer travelling environment for all.

“It’s important that people continue to report any issues of concern they have in their area, as this allows us to identify any problems and set about tackling them.”

Anyone who does witness any crime or antisocial behaviour on the rail network in these areas should contact BTP on Freefone 0800 40 50 40. In an emergency, always call 999.