The funeral takes place today of the hero pensioner who died trying to save a woman on the railway tracks at Chartham.

Dr David Ashworth, 74, was killed as he tried to rescue a family friend who jumped from a bridge on to the line.

The pair were hit by a London-bound train on June 16. Dr Ashworth, of Rowan Close, Sturry, was killed instantly.

Ella Akehurst, 38, from Chartham, survived, but suffered serious injuries and remains in hospital.

The 74-year-old had taken Miss Akehurst to see her GP in the village just minutes before they were both struck by the train last Tuesday.

Dr Ashworth, a retired University of Kent academic from Rowan Close, Sturry, jumped down to try to pull her clear but was hit as he tried to escape the oncoming train.

Speaking shortly after the tragedy, Ms Akehurst's brother Luke said Ella was left “incredibly distressed” when told of Dr Ashworth’s death.

Mr Akehurst, who lives in Oxford and works as a Labour party campaigner, added: “We are devastated by David’s death. He was a very close family friend for three decades who offered to help Ella.

“He was a kind, caring and totally selfless person who lost his life heroically saving Ella’s.

“As a family we have been overwhelmed by the support we have been shown by the village and would just like to thank everyone for their kindness.

Dr Ashworth’s funeral is at Barham Crematorium at 2.40pm. Family flowers only are requested but donations can be made to the Salvation Army.

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