Paul Crowther OBE, Chief Constable, British Transport Police

Since the early 19th century, British Transport Police has been at the forefront of global transport policing and played a vital role in a growing rail industry.

Our mission is to help get people home every day safe, secure and on time, and ensure the rail network in England, Scotland and Wales is safe and secure for industry colleagues and the travelling public.

We police the journeys of over eight million people every day. In the past year alone, our officers have dealt with more than 400 fatalities and made over 1,900 life-saving interventions (in which a person is stopped from taking their own life) on the rail network.

The past 12 months have also been incredibly challenging. Our officers were first on the scene at the terrorist attack in the Manchester Arena. At the London Bridge attack two weeks later, we helped to save the lives of many. Our officers were also heavily involved in the incidents at Westminster and Parsons Green, and our victim identification team worked around the clock in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

We continue to refine our skills and adapt our approach to ensure we meet the needs of a rapidly expanding rail network. Understanding the commercial pressures the industry faces and how policing can affect operational activity is integral to delivering an effective service.

We are excited to be taking part in Rail Live 2018. Our officers are looking forward to showcasing their range of specialist skills and giving you an insight into the unique world of railway policing.