Shropshire Star

Award for rail worker who talked man down from bridge

A train manager who talked a suicidal man down from a bridge has been recognised with an award.

Published
Mick Paul with Chief Superintendent Allan Gregory

Mick Paul from London Midland, who is based at Shrewsbury has been given a commendation for his actions in helping the man who was on a viaduct in Wolverhampton.

Mr Paul was working on a service on January 14 when it was brought to a stop on Oxley junction, following concerns for the safety of a man sat on the bridge.

While officers made their way to the scene, Mr Paul got out of the train and spoke with the man, building a rapport with him and persuading him to come away from the edge.

The rail employee then managed to get the man onto the train and to safety, until officers arrived and made sure he got the support he needed.

At a ceremony on Monday Mr Paul was awarded a commendation for his actions, which ensured the incident came to a swift and safe conclusion.

Midland commander Superintendent Sandra England described Mr Paul as a credit to his profession.

She said: “Mr Paul went above and beyond that day, putting someone else’s safety before his own in order to secure their wellbeing . He is a credit to London Midland and the rail industry.”