A MAJOR police operation has been launched to keep Teesside's railway network safe for travellers.

Particular hot spots are being targeted by increased 24-hour police patrols.

High visibility uniformed police patrols are being stepped up - as well as undercover surveillance.

A spokeswoman for Network Rail revealed: "If we do catch people on the railway we will seek prosecution and where it is appropriate, we will prosecute.''

Lines running through Marton, Phoenix Sidings at Stockton, and the stretch of track around Billingham Station are among the worst vandal hot spots on Teesside.

One sick example came last week when jokers laid a "body" across a track at Loftus made up of a tracksuit top and bottoms, stuffed with material.

Sergeant Rob Quarmby, of the British Transport Police, said: "We are running a number of initiatives during the Easter holidays, some areas have already started.

"It's just a matter of increasing plain clothes patrols and uniformed officers in the area to try and eliminate problems with vandals stoning trains, trespass and low-level disorder; kids hanging around in groups and drinking.

"I don't think youngsters think things through and consider the likely results of their actions.''

About the fake body placed on the line at Loftus, Sgt Quarmby said: "That diverts resources from where they could be needed. We would appeal to people not to do this and for parents to be aware of where their children are. I would urge them to help the situation by keeping kids off the railway lines."

Reinforcing his call, a spokeswoman for Network Rail said: "We would urge parents to take just five minutes to tell their children to stay away from the railway. It is dangerous. Stay safe, stay away.

"They trespass on the railway, throw objects at trains or place obstacles on the railway lines. It is extremely dangerous and risks their lives and risks the lives of the travelling public."