The RailStaff Awards 2024

Steve Swanton

Northern Rail Limited

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Nominations for Samaritans Lifesaver Award

Gerard Slade

Said the following about Steve Swanton:

“Steve is a driver for Northern Rail and was involved in a suicide attempt on the afternoon of 29th January 2015. He showed a desire to go above and beyond the expectations of his role, and delivered results which essentially saved a life.

He was driving the 2F18 service between Knottingley and Leeds when on approach to Methley Junction Steve noticed a gentleman who appeared to be tying a rope to the bridge side. After stopping the train he immediately contacted the signaller to gain a block on the line so no further trains were involved in the incident, once the safety of the line had been guaranteed Steve approached the gentleman to ask what his intentions were, at which stage the man in question was seen struggling to untie the rope and running towards a vehicle close to the bridge.

It is at this stage that I believe Steve went above and beyond expectations, walking up the embankment to take the registration details of the vehicle and passing this information on to British Transport Police, who visited the registered address and intervened during a second suicide attempt.

Steve’s quick thinking resulted in not only a suicide intervention, but ensured the safety of the line and his passengers were a top priority.“