A BAN on e-scooters on trains and at stations in South Somerset has come into force today (Thursday, June 1).

South Western Railway has imposed the new rules, which impacts on Yeovil Junction and Crewkerne stations, due to safety concerns around the lithium-ion batteries and their potential to overheat.

The ban also applies to e-unicycles, e-skateboards and hoverboards and follows similar action taken by other train operators/

A spokesperson for the rail company said: "While the chances of a fire are small, there have been recent incidents of e-scooters catching fire on other forms of public transport."

In addition to the ban of e-scooters, SWR has confirmed that customers will not be permitted to charge the devices at their stations or on their trains, and that they will not be accepted as lost property.

Electric wheelchairs and e-bikes are exempt from the ban, as are mobility scooters for those with accessibility needs.

Jane Lupson, SWR’s safety and security director, said: “Reports of incidents involving e-scooters catching fire on National Rail services or infrastructure are increasing and the potential risk that they pose is not acceptable to our customers and colleagues.

“After some consideration, and in line with other partners in the rail industry, we will be banning e-scooters on our trains and at our stations from Thursday 1 June.

“We understand that these devices are popular, but the safety of our customers and staff is our number one priority, so until greater regulation and testing can be brought in to ensure the safety of those travelling on trains, e-scooters will remain banned.”

Petrol scooters and mopeds are still not allowed on trains due to the fire risk associated with petrol.