So, a little about me: I was born and raised in South London, and I consider myself a down-to-earth guy. I enjoy sports (especially football), running, going to the gym, spending time with friends, and watching movies. Most people would describe me as personable, conscientious, and someone with a heart of gold.
When I finished my degree, policing was always a career I aspired to pursue, especially after studying policing as part of one of my university modules. However, life took me in a different direction, and I ended up working and travelling abroad. When I returned to the UK, I gave teaching a try, but it didn’t work out for me. I then moved from one office job to another but ultimately decided I needed a career change—something I would enjoy, find meaningful, and that offered stability and opportunities for progression.
I joined the British Transport Police (BTP) during the COVID-19 pandemic, making me what some call a “COVID cop,” and I’ve never looked back since. The initial training was an intensive 7-week programme, but I felt fully supported throughout the process. After completing training, I entered a 4-week tutoring period, working under the supervision of an experienced tutor to gain hands-on experience in the role. Once signed off by my tutor, I began my one-year probation period, supported by my Sergeant. Upon completing probation, I became a permanent, full-time officer—a journey that’s been both rewarding and transformative.
One particular moment in my career with BTP stands out. On 22nd December 2022, I was involved in a life-or-death situation at Maidenhead Station. My colleague and I received a call over the radio about a suicidal female heading to the station to end her life. We located her on the platform, sitting dangerously close to the edge. Concerned she might step onto live rails or fall, I immediately radioed the control room to have the power to the tracks switched off. As I turned to my right, I saw a high-speed train approaching at approximately 125mph, giving me just seconds to act. I faced a split-second decision: let her fall or intervene.
I chose to act. Jumping down onto the tracks, I managed to move her out of harm’s way with just 0.8 seconds to spare before the train passed us. She was saved, taken to a safe space, and then transported to the hospital. That day, my actions were recognised as an act of heroism. I received a commendation from the BTP, two medals from the Royal Humane Society for valour and bravery and was even invited to share my story on ITV’s Good Morning Britain.
After the incident, the reality of what had happened began to sink in. Once the adrenaline wore off, I felt a wave of shock. The BTP took great care of me, arranging for a hospital check-up to ensure I was physically and mentally okay. My acting Sergeant came to my home to inform my family of the situation and to express how proud he was of my actions, reassuring me that I would receive the recognition I deserved. I was given a few days off to recover, followed by a phased return to work, starting with office-based duties before resuming normal operations.
Having worked in various roles and industries, I can confidently say that joining the BTP was the best decision I ever made. BTP offers unmatched support, encouragement, and opportunities for career progression. Whether you want to specialise in a particular area or grow within the organisation, the options are endless. My experience has shown me that the BTP is not just a workplace but a community that genuinely cares about its officers and their well-being.
It’s an organisation that wants you to succeed and makes you proud to be part of its team. I wholeheartedly recommend a career with the British Transport Police.
Click here to find out more about becoming a PCSO.
