By Anna Ellis • Published: 23 Jul 2024 • 16:43 • 1 minute read
Tortoise on the tracks: Solomon's slow but steady train adventure. Image: Network Rail Wessex / X
A tortoise named Solomon took his motto of “slow and steady” to new heights, causing a commotion on the train tracks near Ascot station in the UK.
The ambitious shelled wanderer decided to explore beyond his usual back garden and ended up starring in a railway drama that left commuters scratching their heads.
South Western Railway reported that Solomon was spotted making a beeline for Bagshot – well, more of a ‘tortoise line’ – which led to a brief but unexpected delay.
According to eyewitnesses, the train driver saw Solomon moving with impressive speed for a tortoise, proving that even the slowest creatures can have a moment of glory.
Engineers quickly scooped up Solomon and gave him a VIP escort to the Ascot platform, where he was treated to a special ride on a train.
Despite the minor hiccup in service, Network Rail Wessex was quick to apologise for the inconvenience and explained that Solomon’s escapade was due to a gap in a fence.
They urged the public to remember that railway tracks are no place for a casual stroll and reminded everyone that trains need a considerable distance to stop, especially when it involves a tortoise doing his best impression of a high-speed chase.
As for Solomon, he was eventually reunited with his owner, who probably had some explaining to do about the adventurous escape artist of the family.
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Originally from Derbyshire, UK, Anna has lived in the middle of nowhere on the Costa Blanca for 20 years.
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