A YOUNG train conductor who saved the life of a colleague who had a heart attack at the controls of a York-bound train has been nominated for two awards.

Robert Denison, 20, who works at the York depot for First TransPennine Express, was faced with the challenge of his life when he found his driver unconscious at the controls of the train en route from Scarborough to York, after suffering a heart attack.

Staying calm under pressure, Robert secured the train, tended to his colleague and ensured his passengers were kept informed and reassured throughout the incident.

The driver went on to make a full recovery and many grateful passengers wrote letters thanking Robert for his actions.

The heroic conductor has now been nominated for the outstanding personal contribution award at the National Rail Awards, as well as the frontline employee of the year award at the National Transport Awards.

Robert’s manager Stephen O’Doherty said: “Robert is a first-class conductor, who does a fantastic job every day.

“It’s clear in my mind that his fast response and clear thinking in a highly stressful situation – and in his first year on the job – saved the driver’s life that day.
“I’m extremely proud of him, and delighted to have him on my team.”

Grateful passengers sent First TranPennine Express a record 26 letters of praise for Robert after the incident last year.

One passenger said: “I was in the front carriage so was aware of what happened.
“No one could have handled it better.”

Another impressed traveller added: “He showed maturity and should be highly commended.”
It’s not the first time Robert has gone beyond the call of duty as he had already been named Gem of the Year for 2012 at the FTPE Customer Excellence Awards.

He will go to the National Rail Awards at The Grosvenor House hotel, London next month.