Network Rail has revealed that the number of crimes associated with racial prejudice reported on its services has risen over the past year, according to figures obtained by the Press Association thanks to a Freedom of Information request.

On average, four such incidents were reported to the British Transport Police (BTP) per day in 2014. This is a total of 1,468 throughout the year, up slightly from the 1,364 recorded in 2013. These figures are based on offences deemed to be “racially or religiously aggravated” by the BTP.

David Sidebottom, director of watchdog Transport Focus, said: 'Although it is generally very safe to travel by train, passengers, particularly black and minority ethnic ones, will be concerned by this increase in racist crime.'

He also pointed out: 'Passengers tell us that the best deterrent against crime is a visible staff and police presence on trains and at stations.'