Metro workers rescue Northumberland man's dog from busy Tyne and Wear tracks

Louis Meach and Alan Hudson, operations managers on the Tyne and Wear Metro, rescued Bobby the Rhodesian Ridgeback on June 19, getting him safely off the lines by enticing him with some chicken.

They said that the rescue was all in a day’s work but Bobby’s relieved owner has personally thanked them both for their efforts.

Bobby had escaped from the home of a dog sitter in Gosforth and hs owner, Barry Churchill, was left frantically searching for him.

Barry, 47, of Choppington, had just arrived at work at around 9am, when he learned that his beloved pooch had escaped.

He was spotted on the loose on the Armstrong Bridge and in Jesmond Dene, before ending up on the Metro tracks between South Gosforth and Ilford Road – an area where services are most frequent.

A customer then recognised him from an appeal Barry had put on Facebook and alerted the staff.

Louis and Alan went on to the tracks while trains in the were cautioned to lower speeds. Once they had Bobby back on his lead they walked him back to safety and he was reunited with Barry.

Louis said: “I was at South Gosforth station when a customer said there was a dog on the line. I looked around and I saw him running down the track.

“We reacted quickly. We got on the next train, and the driver was able to proceed at caution. We then got out on the lines to look for Bobby on foot.

“It was a relief as it could have been a lot worse. There was a real risk he could have been struck by a train. He’s a lovely dog. He was pleased to see us.”

Barry said: “I cannot thank the Metro staff enough for their efforts. I was frantic that day. It was a real ordeal.

“Alan and Louis have done a fantastic job. I’m enormously grateful. It could have turned out much worse.

“I’ve been keen to meet up with them, just to say a personal thank you. They were amazing and they are a credit to their employer.”