Must Be Right

Train hopping is a long-established tradition in the USA, but did you know it's popular in Britain? Although it's against the law, many people hitch free rides on freight trains today. Both men and women are involved. They come from all walks of life, from vagrants and immigrant workers to thrill-seeking middle class citizens. It can be quite an adventure considering freight lines pass through all of our counties and major cities. Unfortunately, a small number of people are killed every year trespassing on railways and jumping trains. People have been crushed by heavy loads. Some have been trapped in containers and died of thirst and starvation. Some have even frozen to death in winter months while travelling in sub-zero temperatures.

However, there are many seasoned travellers who follow a code of ethics to find their way around the freight network and make their journey as safe as possible. Although the rail authorities dismiss the sentimental idea of train hopping as simply criminal and extremely dangerous, for some it is a really exciting and daring experience.