An LNER train driver has been praised for his quick thinking after helping to divert a London-bound service during Saturday evening’s violent incident on board an intercity train. Working alongside teams at the Rail Operating Centre in York, Andrew Johnson alerted a signaller, who rerouted the 18:25 Doncaster to King’s Cross service away from its normal path.

Drawing on nearly two decades of driving experience, Johnson also requested an unscheduled stop at Huntingdon station. The decision enabled police to board the train swiftly and arrest the suspect, bringing the situation under control while minimising further risk to passengers and staff.

Prior to his railway career, Johnson spent 17 years serving in the Royal Navy — experience colleagues say contributed to his calm and decisive response in a high-pressure situation.

LNER drivers undergo more than 300 hours of classroom and practical training before taking control of services, and continue to face regular assessments throughout their careers, including a comprehensive competency review every two years. The rigorous programme is designed to ensure drivers are equipped to handle both routine operations and unexpected emergencies.

Andrew said: “As train drivers, we hold a lot of responsibility. We practise our emergency response and keep up to date with our knowledge of the route, so if needed, we know exactly where to stop and what to do. The action I took is the same as any other driver. I think my colleagues onboard were the real heroes and I’d like to pay tribute to their bravery."

David Horne, Managing Director at LNER, said: “Andrew’s actions are testament to the expertise and skills he has built over his career, both on the railway and in the military. The intensive training undertaken by our drivers means they are always ready to respond in any situation. We’re grateful to Andrew, our onboard colleagues, the signaller, and the station team at Huntingdon, for their actions on Saturday. Our thoughts remain with our colleague in hospital."

Image: LNER