By: Abigail Wu-Falcone

A runaway pet tortoise named Solomon recently embarked on an adventure that left train commuters who use the Southwestern Railway (SWR) both amused and slightly delayed. The reptile’s escapade unfolded on a Friday evening, disrupting services between Ascot in Berkshire and Bagshot in Surrey.

Solomon’s journey began when a vigilant train driver spotted him on the tracks. Four trains were delayed as engineers sprang into action to rescue the wayward tortoise. Their efforts paid off, and Solomon was safely moved to a platform. But that wasn’t the end of his adventure—he even got a ride on a train!

Solomon was the star of this unlikely railway drama. His owner, no doubt surprised by the turn of events, must have been relieved when SWR staff confirmed that Solomon was unharmed.

The incident occurred at approximately 6 p.m. on that fateful Friday evening. Thankfully, services returned to normal by 7 p.m., allowing commuters to breathe a sigh of relief.

The unexpected tortoise sighting took place between Ascot and Bagshot stations in the Southwestern Railway network.

While Solomon’s escapade had a happy ending, this incident serves as a reminder to pet owners to keep a close eye on their companions. Network Rail emphasized the dangers of the railways, urging everyone to add secure fencing to prevent animals (and humans) from wandering onto the tracks.

Whether you’re a tortoise or a human commuter, the railway remains a place where vigilance and caution are paramount. So next time you’re waiting for a train, spare a thought for Solomon—the tortoise who briefly became a railway traveler.

Image Credit Photo by Adrijana