A TEXT service which allows passengers to alert transport cops to trouble on trains has celebrated its fourth anniversary.

British Transport Police launched the pioneering 61016 text number back in March 2013.

The service encourages rail passengers nationwide to report non-emergency incidents as and when they occur without endangering themselves, unlike any other force in the UK.

Since launching, some 62,000 messages from UK rail users have been received.

This has led to more than 10,000 incidents being recorded and over 4,700 crimes.

British Transport Police also unveiled a newly wrapped train promoting the innovative 61016 service alongside ScotRail and Transport Scotland last November, and the force has seen a noticeable increase in the amount of messages being sent since then.

Chief Superintendent John McBride, said: “Our unique text number has revolutionised the way in which concerned passengers and victims of crime can contact police.

“Policing a moving train has its challenges, however, the text service has enabled us to offer passengers a hassle free way to report concerns.

“We’re now able to be where we need to be as a result of their contact.”

He added: “Text messages should never be sent in an emergency situation as due to mobile phone signal there are no guarantees that they send correctly or are received promptly.

“We are thrilled that more than 1,400 people have chosen to use this service and we hope that the ease of being able to send a quick text message will encourage more passengers to report incidents.”