The latest investment on the East Coast Main Line will see security company Vital carry out targeted patrols at key locations along the route, which connects London King’s Cross with Scotland via Peterborough, Doncaster, York, Darlington and Newcastle.

By disrupting potential offenders before they strike, the initiative aims to reduce delays and disruption for passengers and freight operators.

John Grainger, joint head of performance for Network Rail and LNER, said: “Cable theft, vandalism and trespass can have a significant impact on the railway, causing delays and cancellations for passengers and freight operators while putting lives at risk.

“This investment provides a real boost to our proactive approach to tackling criminal activity across the East Coast route by increasing patrols at key locations and providing greater visibility on the ground.

“These patrols form part of a wide range of measures used to tackle railway crime. We work closely with British Transport Police to prevent, detect and prosecute offenders through proactive patrols, the use of drones and security cameras at strategic locations, and the forensic marking of assets, which can support investigations.

“Together, these measures can help deter offenders, protect critical infrastructure and keep passengers moving safely and reliably.”