Arriva Trains Northern has issued a fresh warning about the dangers of playing on railway tracks with the summer holidays now underway.

The train operator has again teamed up with British Transport Police (BTP) in an effort to try to prevent any serious accidents on the region's rail network.

About 350 people are killed every year as a result of trespassing on railway lines.

This year's campaign follows the accident last summer in which Hurworth teenager Ben Woods lost his right arm and left leg when he was hit by a train on the East Coast Mainline.

Police in conjunction with train operators have identified both the Darlington and Stockton areas as trouble hot spots for trespassing.

Arriva Trains Northern's managing director Ray Price said: "We want local children to understand that although it may appear exciting to fool around on or near railway lines it is actually incredibly dangerous.

"Our hope is that together we can persuade youngsters to play safe this summer and not put themselves in a position where they could be hurt or even killed."

Danny Snee, chief inspector of BTP, added: "We ask all parents to ensure their young children stay off the railway lines and have a safe summer holiday.

"For those who are old enough to recognise the dangers we also urge them not put themselves in danger and keep well away from railway tracks."

*Reports of trespassing can be passed on in confidence by calling (0800) 405040.