Train guards trial cameras

In a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour, South Western Railway has announced the trial of body worn cameras.

The cameras will be trialled by train guards working out of Fratton depot and will be seen on board trains running on various lines.

The trial began on Monday 28th June, and could result in all guards on the South Western Railway network wearing body worn cameras permanently.

The use of cameras is hoped to reduce anti-social behaviour on SWR’s trains and at its stations, as well as act as a deterrent to assaults, threats and abuse experienced by staff.

Alan Penlington, SWR’s Customer Experience Director, commented: “While our trains and stations are already equipped with CCTV, we are always looking for ways to help our customers travel with confidence and ensure that colleagues feel safer at work.

“While we wish that we could prevent every incident, we expect that the new footage will help authorities in any prosecutions by providing good quality evidence.”