Network Rail has highlighted safety at a number of events

Network Rail says with the start of the holiday, railway crime has risen with most by children and young people.

Teams will patrol hotspot areas like Darlington, Shildon, Cramlington, Stockton, Hartlepool and Pelaw.

Figures show in 2003/04 there were 20 trespassing incidents in Durham and 19 in Darlington and 17 vandalism incidents in Stockton.

The figures for the East Coast Mainline also showed Stockton had 12 trespassing incidents and 14 vandalism instances in Darlington.

We don't want any child to die as a result of playing on the railway this summer Vicki Smith, Network Rail

Network Rail external liaison officer Vicki Smith said: "With long days and light evenings, it's easy to understand why children want to play outside - but it's hard to understand why some risk their lives playing on dangerous railway lines.

"As well as the risk of being hit by a train, there is the risk of electrocution from overhead lines. Previous tragedies have shown that children and young people do not survive these massive electric shocks.

"We implore parents and guardians to make sure their children understand the dangers of playing on the tracks.

"We don't want any child to die as a result of playing on the railway this summer."

In the North East this year, Network Rail has been involved in a number of events to highlight rail safety including school visits, football in the community and sponsorship of youth sports teams and events.