Retired academic saves suicidal friend's life but loses his own

An inquest has heard how a retired academic was killed by a train while saving the life of a suicidal friend who'd jumped onto the tracks near Chartham Station in Kent.

Dr David Ashworth, who was 74, was killed seconds after placing Ella Akehurst between the tracks so that the train passed over her in June last year.

But he couldn't save himself. His sons have described his actions as heroic and selfless.

Thelma Vaughan-Cubitt was waiting at the level crossing when Ella Akehurst jumped onto the tracks. She told the inquest in Margate how she and her husband had tried in vain for up to four minutes to alert the signalman and stop an oncoming train.

But Det Con Tony Gittins of the British Transport Police told the inquest that the signalman didn't hear them.

David Ashworth's bravery may now be given official recognition. He's been nominated for a posthumous award for civilian gallantry.

You can watch Abigail Bracken's full report by clicking below.