Rail heroes receive awards
HEROES of the Blaxhall rail crash were today getting further bravery awards.Driver Nigel Fisher and guard Robert Williams ignored their own injuries to protect passengers after the smash last April.
HEROES of the Blaxhall rail crash were today getting further bravery awards.
Driver Nigel Fisher and guard Robert Williams ignored their own injuries to protect passengers after the smash last April.
Both men were praised by the judge overseeing the criminal prosecution which followed the accident at the Blaxhall level crossing.
And they were officially receiving the judge's commendation in a special ceremony at Ipswich Station today.
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British Transport Police chief superintendent Peter Hilton was presenting the award, which was made after the pair were nominated by detective constable Alan Reed.
Mr Fisher was praised after the crash for his quick reactions in slowing the train before impact and isolating fuel tanks straight away.
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Mr Williams suffered a broken arm, but put the needs of the train's 56 passengers before his own welfare.
The pair passed round coffee from their thermos flasks to passengers and offered mobile phones so loved ones could be kept in touch.
Anglia Railways managing director Tim Clarke said: "I am delighted that Nigel and Robert have been singled out for special recognition by the judge in the court case following the Blaxhall incident.
"Their actions in looking after passengers and ensuring they were safe despite their own injuries set a shining example.
"I am grateful to both Nigel and Robert and very proud of their efforts on behalf of Anglia Railways."
Nine passengers were taken to hospital with minor injuries after the crash.
A criminal prosecution followed in which 43-year-old Hacheston lorry driver Michael Read eventually admitted dangerous driving and was banned for 12 months.
