"As these devices have become more and more popular, so have the horror stories of lithium batteries overheating and catching fire," the train operator explained.
As of yesterday (27 December 2022), the two companies became the latest train operators to introduce a ban on all e-scooters, hoverboards, and e-skateboards within stations and on train services across the UK, as safety concerns over the risks posed by the Lithium-ion batteries that typically power these devices continue to rise.
Lithium-ion batteries can produce a vapour of toxic gases and lead to a fire or a risk of explosion if damaged or overheated, the train operators explained.
Avanti West Coast and TPE have joined several other train operators in banning these devices from this week, and this comes after Northern notably banned them on its 345 trains and at 500+ stations across the North of England at the start of this month too.
Northern said customer and staff safety was its "number one priority" when it introduced the ban.
Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express ban all e-scooters over 'safety concerns' / Credit: Let's Kick (via Unsplash)
"As these devices have become more and more popular, so have the horror stories of lithium batteries overheating and catching fire," the train operator explained.
"Most of these devices are not actually approved for use in the UK, and our staff will refuse travel to anyone attempting to board one of our trains, or access one of our stations with such a device."
Avanti West Coast echoed similar concerns, and confirmed in a statement that the ban is temporary and intended to "preserve the safety of our colleagues and customers until there is greater regulation on e-scooters", before going on to ask the public to "adhere to these new rules" and "be kind to our staff helping to enforce them".
TPE called the risks associated with e-scooters and similar devices something of "significant concern", and referenced the fact that most of these devices are "not approved for use in the UK".
The safety concerns over the risks posed by the Lithium-ion batteries that typically power these devices / Credit: Michel Grolet (via Unsplash)
Currently, the only e-scooters legal to use on UK roads are those taking part in government-approved rental trial schemes - which began back in 2020 to help gather data for the potential full legalisation of the devices.
E-scooters are actually classed as motor vehicles, which therefore means that the rules that apply to motor vehicles also apply to e-scooters - including being in possession of a full UK driving license, insurance, and the need to be taxed.
Mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs, and e-bikes are all exempt from all bans.
With the bans now introduced, customers who are travelling with mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs on each of the three train providers are being advised to contact the companies ahead of their journey to arrange assistance.
A Leeds pilates studio loved by many has suddenly announced its shock closure.
Outskultped is a fitness studio specialising in reformer pilates based in Leeds city centre.
As one of the first in the city to offer the the pilates practice over two years ago, it quickly built a loyal following of those looking to get in on the trend.
Since then, a flurry of studios have opened in the city which unfortunately means Reform by Outskulpted is closing their doors for good.
The team issued a heartbreaking statement to Instagram, which says: "We cannot believe we are writing this.
"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Reform by Outskulpted. The studio will host the last classes on September 12th 2026.
"We understand that this is probably unexpected and feels like a quick turnaround, this decision has not been made lightly between us and we do wish there was another way. We are so grateful for the 2.5 years that we have had at Reform.
"This was built by two girls in their twenties taking their first real risk in life and watching it blossom into a community of individuals has been nothing shy of incredibly to experience.
"We will always be so proud of ourselves for bringing Reformer Pilates to the community of Leeds and seeing it become such a pivotal part of so many routines."
It continued: "The fitness space and Pilates industry is evolving at a rapid rate and unfortunately we are unable to maintain the same speed.
"We began this journey with a £20,000 loan, self belief and our best friend on our side. We didn't have £100,000s backing us in case it didn't work out. It took hard work, resilience and determination in order to get Reform by Outskulpted to become a recognisable brand in Leeds."
A local man is about to sit in a bath tub in Leeds city centre for over 60 HOURS
Clementine Hall
Leeds’ City Square will welcome a crazy stunt this weekend all aid of a fantastic charity.
If you’re walking through town this weekend, then you may see something a little bit out of the ordinary. In fact, a lot out of the ordinary.
That’s because, fundraiser Chris Sylvester is on a mission to spread the word and beat the stigma around drug addiction.
He is the founder of Getting Clean, a fantastic company that make and sell soaps raising funds to support people struggling with addiction and homelessness.
Images: Getting Clean (Supplied)
This weekend, he has vowed to plonk himself in a bathtub in City Square and not move until he has reached the target of £50,000 from people buying the soap.
The event will kick off on Friday 7 August and will run to Sunday 9 August, members of the public are encouraged to "free him" by purchasing the lovely bars of soap.
Reaching the £50,000 sales target will then unlock a £20,000 donation to a recovery support project led by Forward Leeds, so it really is a good cause.
So, how can you support Chris? You can support the initiative by placing an order online, visiting Chris on City Square this weekend, or buying one of their pay-it-forward ‘First Day’ packs which are designed to help people leaving prison or entering rehabilitation treatment.
Announcing the stunt to social media, here's what Chris and Getting Clean had to say: "HELP US SELL £50,000 WORTH OF SOAP TO HELP BEAT ADDICTION
"On 7th, 8th and 9th August I will be at Leeds city square. Just outside of Leeds city centre train station, right next to Thors bar. I will be in this BATH TUB and I WILL NOT leave, until we’ve hit our target. 50% of our profits go towards tackling addiction right here in Leeds, but there’s so much work left to do…"
Sophie Smith -
28th December 2022 
