A TAXI driver has been given an award after she risked her life to save two people from a crash on a North Yorkshire level crossing.

Lucy Gale, 32, was awarded the Royal Humane Society’s silver medal for bravery, after she helped the two drivers get out of their cars at a level crossing in Hensall, near Goole, as a freight train was coming towards them.

On May 27 of last year, Lucy, from Pontefract, was approaching the crossing when she saw two vehicles on the line, which had been in a crash.

An elderly female driver was slumped behind the wheel of one vehicle, and Lucy pulled her from the car and moved her to safety. She then went back and helped the male driver of the other car out of his vehicle, and drove it off the crossing to ensure the approaching freight train was not derailed.

Once all three were in a safe position, Lucy assisted both casualties until the police and ambulance service arrived.

Harry Thompson, from the British Transport Police, was one of the first officers on the scene and said: “When I arrived, I had no idea about the events that had taken place prior to the emergency services attending.

“As the incident unfolded, I soon realised how heroic Lucy had been, and was astounded by her courage. Her level-headedness and quick-thinking actions helped avert a disaster.”