Soldier returned home with a romantic proposal

And when he arrived at Westgate Railway Station the first thing he did was get down on one knee and propose to Zoe Hayman.

Passengers and station staff watched on as Mr Rogers, dressed in his combat uniform, threw down his bags and asked for her hand in marriage.

Also present was Ms Hayman’s five-year-old son, Xander, and Mr Rogers’ mum Tracey.

Mrs Rogers said: “Coming home was a special moment for them both after Martin’s five months away and he thought it would be the ideal time to propose.

“I kept a safe hold of the engagement ring just to make sure it didn’t get lost in all of the excitement. We’re all so happy and looking forward to the wedding.”

Mr Rogers has returned home to Wakefield for two week’s leave before he returns to complete his tour of duty in Afghanistan.

Neal McNulty, East Coast Customer Service Assistant was on the platform and took the photos of Martin’s romantic proposal.

He said “It was the best thing I’ve ever seen on the station – a real tear jerker.

“The little boy was shouting as Martin stepped from the train. He gave the little lad a big cuddle, then got down on one knee and proposed.

“There was hardly a dry eye in the house when she said yes.”

The pictures he took were tweeted by East Coast after the proposal on Wednesday night.

East Coast Social Media Manager Nick Wood added “We’re receiving lots of messages saying what a lovely moment it was – the most romantic thing on the railway since Brief Encounter.

“Martin and Zoe have brought a touch of romance to the rails and everyone here is delighted for them.

“We wish Martin and Zoe every happiness and who knows – maybe they’ll choose to start their honeymoon by East Coast train at Wakefield Westgate.”