MINDLESS yobs vandalised two south Essex stations in the early hours of the morning just days after Basildon station was trashed – sparking additional patrols from British Transport Police.
Yobs targeted Southend East and Westcliff train stations were targeted by yobs in the early hours of Thursday morning, ripping posters off the walls and vandalising both stations.
It comes just days after “severe vandalism” at Basildon station, which saw chip and pin readers damaged, windows smashed and the wi-fi system broken.
READ MORE >> Southend Airport owner 'to explore' sale of site as it searches for 'right buyer'
c2c bosses said they are now working with the British Transport Police and will be putting additional patrols in place.
Matt Dent, Labour councillor responsible for the Kursaal ward, was shocked to hear of further vandalism at the south Essex stations.
He said: “Imean it is especially worrying to hear about the latest vandalism incidents at c2c stations.
“Like a lot of people, I saw the shocking Basildon incident earlier in the week, which we all thought was just a one off.
“So, to see a repetition of this at another station, here in Southend, makes it seem like a pattern, which is, of course, very worrying.
“It impacts on those working there ,andbut also people getting to work. It is difficult enough for people using railways to commute, without mindless vandalism on top of it.
“Hopefully something has been captured on CCTV and [there is] some evidence to find out who is behind this.
“And I do urge anyone who knows anything or any details to contact the British Transport Police.”
One suspect washas been arrested for the incident at Basildon station in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Iain Palmer, head of security and revenue protection for c2c, added: “This outrageous vandalism to another of our stations is completely unacceptable and we are working closely with the British Transport Police to apprehend those responsible.
“CCTV images of the suspect have been provided to the pPolice already, and we are working with our security firm to put additional patrols in place.
“Once convicted, c2c will ban those responsible from using our stations and services.”
The British Transport Police was contacted for comment by the Echo.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel