A Direct Rail Services (DRS) train driver has been honoured with the Rail Hero Award for his quick thinking and compassion, following a dramatic incident earlier this year.

Chris Bray received the accolade at the Heart of Gold Awards ceremony on 26 November, an event organised by the Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) to recognise individuals in the rail industry who go above and beyond to protect lives and support wellbeing.

The incident took place on 20 February, when Chris was operating a freight service from Daventry to Crewe. He noticed a woman in distress near the tracks and immediately brought his train to a controlled stop, alerting the signaller to block the line. Chris then left his cab and spoke calmly to the woman, keeping her engaged until British Transport Police and Network Rail staff arrived to ensure her safety. His swift intervention is credited with preventing a potential tragedy.

Reflecting on his award, Chris said:

“I really don’t feel like a hero, just glad I was in the right place at the right time. I’m also grateful for the quick response from British Transport Police and Network Rail. It was a team effort to make sure she was safe. It was a real honour just to be nominated, and in a category with such deserving winners too.”

Gottfried Eymer, Managing Director for Rail at NTS, DRS’s parent company, praised Chris, stating:

“Chris’s story is an inspiration to everyone at DRS, his actions exemplify everything we stand for, and we’re exceptionally proud.”

Jo Kaye, CEO of RBF, added:

“These awards are a recognition chosen by the rail community itself. It is a genuine, peer-to-peer acknowledgement where our front-line colleagues take the opportunity to celebrate and offer a simple ‘thank you’ to those around them who quietly make an outstanding difference every day.”

Image: Direct Rail Services