Classical music is to be played at Maryport and Wetheral train stations in a continued attempt to reduce anti-social behaviour.

The train operator orchestrated a plan to play music inspired by the likes of Beethoven, Mozart and Handel at nine stations in 2022 and it was then introduced at another 26 stations last year, as part of trials which aimed to prevent loitering, vandalism and graffiti.

Customers called for an encore, claiming they felt safer at those stations because large groups had stopped gathering there on a regular basis and causing a nuisance, particularly during the school holidays.

The teams which manage the stations play the music at certain times of the day to ensure it has an impact on anti-social behaviour and control the volume, so it does not disturb local residents.

Other stations in the local area to have classical music include Haltwhistle and Ulverston.

Tricia Williams, chief operating officer at Northern, said: “We’re pleased to have found an innovative and effective way of deterring anti-social behaviour.

“Following the successful trial, we will continue playing classical music at these stations and look to introduce it at others in the coming months.

“We want all of our customers to feel safe and secure when they travel and this approach, along with other investment we are making, is working well.”

The news comes amidst a spate of anti-social behaviour across Cumbria. Several dispersal orders have been issued in Workington and Whitehaven and Hammonds Pond in Carlisle has been at the centre of a number of complaints of poor behaviour.

Cumbria Police have put ‘additional investment’ in neighbourhood policing which has increased the number of community beat officers which Cumbria Police say has helped to lower anti-social behaviour complaints in their respective areas.

Chief Superintendent Mick Bird, Neighbourhood Policing Lead for Cumbria Constabulary said: “Anti-social behaviour can have a detrimental impact on individuals and communities.

“Following recent additional investment into Neighbourhood Policing, and an increase in the number of Community Beat Officers, the Constabulary has seen associated reductions in anti-social behaviour.

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“Community Beat Officers are community focussed, meaning they are able to offer an accessible police presence and gain a greater understanding of the issues which need to be addressed – especially within our more rural areas.

“We would encourage parents and carers to speak to young people about their behaviour in the community and the impact this can have on others as well as their own future.

“We would urge anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour, or anyone who has any information around ongoing issues to contact police so that appropriate action can be taken.”