Residents of a Perthshire village have spoken of their shock after a train hit a large piece of wood which police say was “deliberately” dumped on the railway line running through their community.
No passengers were hurt in the incident which happened near Grange level crossing, Errol.
Officers have issued an appeal for information which they hope will help them catch those responsible for what one resident described as a “mindless act”.
The father of one, who asked not be named, said: “It’s unbelievable and very dangerous. I don’t know how someone could do something that could have had such horrendous consequences.
“I am surprised residents were not told by police at the time. This is the first I have heard about it.”
Another resident, who also asked that their name was withheld, said: “There were a lot of police about that night, more than usual, but we weren’t told anything.
“Now that I know what happened, I’m shocked. It’s not the most sensible thing to do. It could have derailed the train which could have hit our house.”
A young mum who was walking her children home from school past the scene said: “It’s terrifying to think what could have happened. There are a lot of kids around here and we walk our dog in that area. I hope they catch whoever did it.”
The investigation is being led by British Transport Police (BTP) with support from Police Scotland’s Tayside division.
A spokesman for BTP said of the incident on Friday: “Officers investigating the incident believe the piece of wood was placed on the line, near Grange level crossing, deliberately.
“Anyone with information regarding those responsible should contact BTP on 0800 40 50 40 or by texting 61016.”