Two heroes who saved a woman’s life after she tripped and fell on a railway line have been crowned the winners of this year's Pride in Medway awards.

Gareth Acres and Billy McPhail acted with no thought of the danger to themselves when they sprang into action at Strood station, after Barbara Smith fell on the track just as a high speed train was pulling into the station.

The pair were crowned winners of the annual awards event, now in its 14th year, at a gala finalist ceremony held last night (Saturday) in Chatham Maritime.

Thirty-two unsung heroes picked up awards at the event, which is aimed at rewarding people who go above and beyond the call of duty in their every day lives.

Mr Acres, 31, and Mr McPhail, 27, jumped on the track after Mrs Smith fell and broke her ankle.

The train was just feet away as she tumbled running to catch her early morning train to London.

Mr McPhail, jumped on the track first and ran across both lines to reach Mrs Smith, who had broken her ankle and Mr Acres, a dad of two, realised what was happening joined Mr McPhail to help rescue her.

Mrs Smith who spent months off work recovering nominated the brave pair for the award and was able to see Mr McPhail pick up his trophy last night.

Mr Acres, of Lancelot Avenue, Strood, was unable to make the event.

However, after being crowned the winner, Mr McPhail said:: "I feel absolutely amazing. I cannot believe I have won this competition, this trophy.

"I felt so out of place when I arrived here there were so many people here who are amazing. I can't thank everyone enough.

Other finalists on the night were Gillngham singer Jamie Johnson, firefighting couple, Dave and Angie Hester who have given more than 50 years service between them and animal lover Erin Russell, 12, who saved a dog's life.

The Pride in Medway Awards are sponsored by Medway Council, mhs homes, the University of Kent, Southern Water, the Medway Messenger, E.ON and Southeastern.

Last year’s winners were Roger and Janet Maddams, who campaigned tirelessly to raise money for and awareness of the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (Cry), after their son, Jack, died suddenly of an undetected heart defect, were guests of honour at the event.

For a full report on the Pride in Medway Awards, see Friday's edition of the Medway Messenger.