Eastbourne Dotto train forced to change routes following anti-social behaviour

The train had to divert away from the promenade on Friday (May 31) after a group of young people ‘interfered’ with carriages and smashed one of the train’s windows.

A spokesperson for Stagecoach said: "Sadly we had to temporarily divert Dotto away from the promenade between Sovereign Harbour and Fishermens Green after an incident on Friday afternoon near the skate park.

"A group of young people interfered with the carriages and a window on the rear carriage was smashed.

"We have a zero-tolerance approach to attacks and anti-social behaviour, and we urge anyone with information to contact Sussex Police."

A spokesperson for the police force added: “Police received a report of a stone having been thrown at a land train in Prince William Parade in Eastbourne at around 4.20pm on Friday.

“Officers engaged with the informant to identify any viable lines of enquiry. Further action will be taken should we become aware of any reasonable lines of enquiry.”

Eyewitnesses also described how teenagers hold on to the back of the train while riding on their skateboards.

One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, has experienced several of these incidents on the train.

She said: “I ride it frequently for fun and, nine times out of 10, kids are always trying to hang onto it.

“They try to hang onto the side of it as well and it has to stop every time.

"It would only take an unanticipated swerve to one side for a kid to get dragged under.”

Stagecoach confirmed the Dotto has returned to its normal route.