Arrest over rail 'hero' shooting

Adam Mapleson is recovering from gunshot wounds

Police are to continue questioning a man arrested over the attempted murder of a commuter who tried to stop an armed robbery at an Essex rail station.

Adam Mapleson, 24, was hailed a hero by British Transport Police after he was shot when trying to stop the gang at Rayleigh railway station on Friday.

He intervened as a guard and her colleague were held at gunpoint.

Mr Mapleson was shot in the chest and is conscious in a high dependency unit at Southend Hospital.

'Extremely brave'

A spokeswoman for British Transport Police said: "We arrested a man late Sunday night in connection with the armed robbery and attempted murder at Rayleigh railway station.

"We are not giving out any details in relation to the man. He is currently helping us with our inquiries. He is in custody."

On Saturday, Mr Mapleson's father, Michael, hailed his son a hero for his actions.

He said: "Knowing Adam as we do, although we're shocked to discover he had been shot, we were not surprised he received his injuries trying to protect another."

His father said it was a "terrible incident", adding that his son had been "extremely brave".

A £25,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the robbers.