Rail workers win award for quick-thinking Kettering swan rescue

Two rail workers who helped save a swan that had been hit by a freight train have won an award.

Robert Buchanan and Jim Filby have been given a 'Hero to Animals Award' from animal rights charity PETA, after their quick-thinking efforts saw the swan rescued at Kettering's railway station on November 27.

East Midlands Railway train driver Robert spotted the swan on the Midland Main Line near Milton Ernest at about 3.20pm.

It had been injured after it was hit by a freight train and Robert scooped it up, put it on his train and stopped off at Kettering's station.

Jim, a Network Rail mobile operations manager, then took over and helped as the swan was handed over to Little Irchester animal rescue charity Animals in Need.

Robert said: “I am surprised and delighted to receive this award from PETA.

“Unbelievably this isn't the first swan I have rescued from a railway! I am thankful we were able to save this one and happy the swan is now safe and well.”

Jim said: “It’s lovely to receive this award, and I’m grateful to PETA for it. However, I see it as being just part of my job.

“It’s never nice to see any animal injured on the railway, so I’m really glad that we were able to work together to help this swan and get a positive outcome.

"They’re now in the safe hands of the team at Animals In Need, who will give them all the love and care they need.”

The pair have now been given the framed award as recognition for their efforts.

PETA director Elisa Allen said: “The kind actions of Robert Buchanan and Jim Filby should inspire others throughout the community and beyond to come to the aid of animals in need.

“Network Rail and East Midlands Railway are fortunate to have workers who are ready to protect and serve both passengers and the wildlife who travel on their railways.”

Annie Marriott from Animals in Need said: "Over the years we have had some unusual rescues but this one has to beat them all."