Dozens of UK transport police stations may close despite rise in assaults

British Transport Police say hiring freeze and 8.5m shortfall in funding will lead to a reduced presence'

Dozens of British Transport Police (BTP) stations across Britain face possible closure, leaving fewer officers protecting the railway at a time when assaults on passengers have reached record levels.

BTP officials have imposed a hiring freeze and warned that some bases will have to close, signalling possible job losses after failing to secure enough funding to meet current commitments.