Group seen playing ‘chicken’ with train

BRITISH Transport Police has launched an investigation after a group of schoolgirls played “chicken” with a train at a Dundee railway station.

The incident took place at Broughty Ferry’s station around 4pm.

Six girls were seen standing at the edge of the platform and jumping away seconds before an oncoming train went past.

It is understood it was an express train travelling through Dundee towards Aberdeen.

One eyewitness — who asked not to be named but said he “had experience in the emergency services” — told the Tele that the girls were “dicing with death”.

He said: “I couldn’t believe what I was seeing, the slipstream could have pulled them right under the train.

“The driver had to sound his horn it was that close.

“It isn’t fun and games. They could have ended up being blood and bones across the railway lines.

“I genuinely couldn’t believe that I was seeing people do something so stupid.

“I shouted across the platform but all I got back was cheek.

“I don’t think they understand what could have happened. That slipstream could have pulled them right under the train.”

A spokesman for British Transport Police confirmed officers are looking into the incident.

He said: “Officers from BTP were called to Broughty Ferry station on Wednesday following reports of six girls seeming to play chicken with a passing train. The girls were standing close to the platform edge and would jump away immediately before a train would pass.”

PC Brian Gordon, from the BTP, said efforts are being made to trace the girls and personally warn them of the dangers arising from their actions.

He said: “Despite constant warning, it appears children continue to risk their lives by playing games on the tracks.

“The railway is an extremely dangerous environment. It is not a playground.

“Our officers regularly visit schools throughout Scotland, talking with children about the dangers of playing on the tracks.

“We are currently making inquiries to find out who these girls were and which school they go to.

“We will then make sure their school is visited and the children know that they put their lives in danger.”

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