A train driver performed a “Christmas miracle” for a stranded couple after making an unscheduled stop to help them home.
Kirill Tsukanov and his wife found themselves unable to reach Shelford station in Cambridgeshire after failing to catch the 11.28pm Greater Anglia service from Liverpool Street on Friday evening.
The pair boarded the later 11.58pm train but faced the prospect of disembarking at either Whittlesford Parkway or Cambridge, both miles from their destination.
Shortly after 1am on Saturday, the train pulled into Shelford station specifically for the couple.
Mr Tsukanov turned to social media to request a “really short additional stop in Shelford” from Greater Anglia.
“My wife and I missed the 11.28pm service unfortunately, so we would really warmly appreciate it,” he wrote.
The railway firm granted his wish.
“Thank you,” he replied. “You have no idea how much you just made our day (or shall I say, our night).
Shortly after 1am on Saturday, the train pulled into Shelford station (pictured)
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“Thank you so, so much. It’s like a Christmas miracle came true. I wish you all the best.”
The firm replied: “Thank you Kirill” I am glad we were able to help.
“Have a safe journey!”
Kirill Tsukanov and his wife were eventually able to reach Shelford station
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The unscheduled stop saved the Russian-born scientist roughly £14 to £16 in taxi fares, which would have covered the four-mile journey from either alternative station.
Greater Anglia recorded the best punctuality figures among British train operators in 2024.
Some 87.2 per cent of services arriving within 60 seconds of their scheduled time.
Greater Anglia is among seven train operators set to be rebranded as Great British Railways next year – and its trains may soon receive this livert
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The firm was brought under state ownership in October.
It is among seven train operators set to be rebranded as Great British Railways next year.
The others are c2c, South Western Railway, London North Eastern Railway, Northern, Southeastern and TransPennine Express.
West Midlands Trains, Chiltern Railways, Thameslink and Great Western Railway are anticipated to join the unified brand in the following year.