A man whose “incredibly dangerous and disruptive” walk along railway tracks caused widespread travel disruption in north-west England has been jailed.

Philip Colebourne, 49, of Wavertree, Liverpool, was arrested after being spotted walking along the line from Southport station to Birkdale station in Merseyside on 18 August. Power to the line had to be cut while officers tracked him down, leading to seven cancelled trains, 10 part-cancellations, and a total of 474 minutes of passenger delays, Network Rail said.

Colebourne pleaded guilty to obstruction of the railway and was sentenced to four months and 15 days in prison, in addition to a £154 fine.

Insp James Deveraux from British Transport Police said:

“Obstructing the railway is not only illegal, it’s incredibly dangerous and disruptive. Colebourne’s actions severely impacted the travelling public and also put himself at significant risk of death or serious injury. We hope this outcome sends a clear message: we will not hesitate to take action against those who endanger the network.”

Phil James, Network Rail North West route director, added:

“As well as causing severe disruption for passengers, trespass incidents like this are dangerous for the individuals involved and those responding. It can be extremely traumatic for our staff and passengers who witness these incidents.”

Image: British Transport Police