He was 56 years old and working for British Rail. He was preparing to stop his train before descending a steep gradient when suddenly the brake steam pipe fractured, destroying the braking system and filling the cab with blinding, scalding steam. Mr Axon was badly burnt. He could have abandoned the engine and saved his life, but, realising the risk of a runaway, he remained at his post and with great bravery endeavoured to get the engine under control. With the aid of his fireman, the regulator was closed and the handbrake applied but the train could not be stopped going down the gradient. He then ordered his fireman to jump clear and apply as many wagon brakes as possible. In spite of his actions the train continued to gather speed. Nevertheless he stayed on his engine, although steam and boiling water were still pouring into the cab, making conditions almost unbearable. He waved a warning to the signalman that the train was out of control. Sadly the train smashed into a freight train and he was killed in the collision.
He was 56 years old and working for British Rail. He was preparing to stop his train before descending a steep gradient when suddenly the brake steam pipe fractured, destroying the braking system and filling the cab with blinding, scalding steam. Mr Axon was badly burnt. He could have abandoned the engine and saved his life, but, realising the risk of a runaway, he remained at his post and with great bravery endeavoured to get the engine under control. With the aid of his fireman, the regulator was closed and the handbrake applied but the train could not be stopped going down the gradient. He then ordered his fireman to jump clear and apply as many wagon brakes as possible. In spite of his actions the train continued to gather speed. Nevertheless he stayed on his engine, although steam and boiling water were still pouring into the cab, making conditions almost unbearable. He waved a warning to the signalman that the train was out of control. Sadly the train smashed into a freight train and he was killed in the collision.
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