OUR hearts go out to the family and friends of the two teenage boys who were killed by a train travelling on the East Coast Main Line in Darlington.

We should also spare a thought for the train driver and those involved in dealing with the aftermath of such a terrible tragedy.

Judging by the comments of the British Transport Police in today's edition of The Northern Echo, it is a tragedy that could be repeated any day on the country's railway lines because trespassing is a regular problem.

Police chiefs and the boys' headteacher have called for greater investment in youth facilities in the wake of the tragedy and we would support any efforts aimed at keeping youngsters off the streets and out of danger.

But education is at the heart of this issue. Despite being incredibly dangerous places, railway lines attract youngsters, and every effort has to be made to spell out the hazards.

Schools should review the way they get the message across and parents must play their part in ensuring their children are aware that railway lines must be avoided.

In time, we hope that the families of the two Darlington boys who died will find the strength to support their names being used as part of the campaign.

The horror of how two young boys so needlessly lost their lives may stop others from taking risks that could so easily end in further heartbreak.