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Long-serving staff members are a regular feature of this magazine, and in this issue we share the stories of two exceptional individuals who’ve served the rail industry throughout their lives.
As we come to the close of the 200th year of the modern railway, we shine a light on the career of Paul Brewer, head of rail operations at Carlisle Support Services. Paul tells us of his early memories of his father at work, the path he took into the industry, and where it has taken him. He also opens up about the role his family has played on the railway over the past two centuries.
Later in the issue, we catch up with Howard Smith OBE as he prepares to step down from his role as director of the Elizabeth line at Transport for London. Howard discusses the highlights of his career, as well as the challenges, names his mentors, and offers advice to future rail professionals. It was great to catch up with him as he prepared for retirement, though I was left with the feeling he’d be busy again before too long.
We reported in August on a change of guard at Network Rail and it would be remiss of us not to mention the retirement of Sir Andrew Haines, the organisation’s chief executive.
During his tenure, he has led the organisation through a period of major change and challenge. He focussed on devolving power to regional routes, improving passenger performance, and enhancing safety standards across Britain’s railway. He also guided the company through the COVID-19 pandemic emergency phase and has played a pivotal role in shaping the transition to Great British Railways (GBR). Despite this sterling record, during a recent press briefing he revealed that he would be moving away from the industry, at least for now. His experience, commitment, and vision will be sorely missed if this is true.
But as Sir Andrew steps down, Jeremy Westlake steps up, bringing extensive leadership experience to the role from across
the transport and engineering sectors. His record in cross-industry collaboration and continuous improvement is expected to be instrumental in driving efficiency, innovation, and unity across the rail sector as we move towards GBR.
A further focus of this edition is safety, health and wellbeing, a topic that is never too far from our minds and, in the worst cases, from the headlines.
Colin Wheeler raises his concerns for volunteer staff, and his roundup of recent RAIB reports highlights the need for vigilance at heritage railways, where maintaining safety standards and protecting those who keep these lines running remains an ongoing challenge.
We take a look at the rise of the body-worn cameras and explore the benefits of their use, along with the challenges being uncovered as their presence becomes more ubiquitous. It seems there’s a fine line between ensuring safety and respecting personal privacy.
Rounding off the focus, we chat to Christian Hughes from MyPeople Group about the company’s approach to improving the safety cultures of teams spread out across the country, and how AI can help ensure that safety conscious candidates are placed into roles.
Finally, with this being the last issue before the 2025 RailStaff Awards, we bring you everything you need to know about the upcoming celebrations, including previous winners, award sponsors, and details on how to book your tickets.
Nominations are now closed and the finalists have been chosen but you can head over to www.railstaffawards.com to see if your friends, colleagues, or even yourself, are among those just one step way from picking up a coveted RailStaff Award.
We look forward to seeing you at the main event on the rail calendar!
HS2 celebrates final Birmingham breakthrough
An enormous machine being used to dig HS2’s Birmingham approach tunnels broke through on Monday 13 October, marking the completion of major tunnel excavation between London’s Old Oak Common and the West Midlands.
The 125-metre-long tunnel boring machine – named Elizabeth after the 19th century philanthropist Elizabeth Cadbury – was launched near the Warwickshire village of Water Orton in March 2024. It arrived at Washwood Heath this morning.
Two identical machines were used to dig the 3.5mile long Bromford tunnel that will carry high speed trains under the M6 and eastern outskirts of the city, with the first one – Mary Ann – breaking through earlier this year.
Together, Elizabeth and Mary Ann have excavated more than 1.8 million tonnes of material and installed 5,804 concrete ring segments for the twin eastbound and westbound tunnels. The spoil – made up of various grades of Mercia Mudstone – is being used to landscape the railway on the approaches to the city.
The milestone means that all the excavation is now complete for the 28 miles of deep bore tunnel between Old Oak Common in west London and the railway’s terminus at Birmingham Curzon Street. Construction teams are now mainly focused on internal walkways, ventilation shafts and cross passages.
Alan Morris, HS2 Ltd’s construction delivery director said: “Today’s breakthrough is a major milestone for the tunnelling team here in Birmingham and for the HS2 project. All eight of the TBMs digging our tunnels between Old Oak Common and Curzon Street have now broken through, which means that the focus is now on the internal concrete work, ventilation shafts and cross passages.
GTR and Siemens Mobility update Class 717s
Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), with Siemens Mobility, has updated its entire fleet of 25 Class 717 Great Northern trains to run in passenger service using an updated specification of the in-cab digital signalling software, European Train Control System (ETCS).
The trains now operate on the Northern City Line between Finsbury Park and Moorgate in London using ETCS Baseline 3, Release 2 (also referred to as version 3.6.0).
This specification of ETCS allows more flexibility for services to operate in a high traffic area by connecting the train to the trackside via GPRS instead of GSM-R. It will be used by all train operators on the East Coast Mainline, as part of the government-funded East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP), where it will be needed to accommodate the route’s high service frequency.
Aaron Meakin, GTR’s senior programme delivery manager said: “Once again, innovations delivered on the Northern City Line are forging the way for the introduction of in-cab digital signalling on the wider UK network.
“By upgrading all our trains to operate with this updated version of the European Train Control System, we’ve proved the concept ready for its roll-out to other train fleets.
“Digital signalling along the main line, promises huge benefits to passengers, with a more reliable, more sustainable railway, lower emissions, and even better safety for passengers.”
Richard Cooper, Infrastructure Lead and ECDP Project Director, Siemens Mobility said: “The successful upgrade of the Siemens-built Class 717 fleet on the Northern City Line to the new ETCS specification marks a major milestone in our mission to transform rail travel through innovative technology.
“Working closely with GTR and Network Rail, we are proud to be delivering a more reliable, connected, and higher-capacity railway for passengers travelling between Moorgate and Finsbury Park.
“This achievement proves that an ETCS no-signals commuter railway unlocks a multitude of benefits on one of the UK’s most demanding urban corridors, and we plan to apply these lessons and improvements to the wider East Coast Main Line.”
Britain's longest rail bridge complete
New images have been released to mark the completion of civil engineering works on HS2’s Colne Valley viaduct – the UK’s new longest rail bridge.
The 2.1-mile-long structure carries Britain’s new high-speed railway across a series of roads, lakes, the River Colne, and the Grand Union Canal, north west of London. Trains will operate at 200mph on the viaduct’s gentle curve which is formed of 1,000 uniquely-shaped deck segments.
Construction of the 10-metre-tall viaduct started in March 2021, led by HS2’s main works contractor for this section of the route, Align, a joint venture between Bouygues Travaux Publics, VolkerFitzpatrick, and Sir Robert McAlpine. The last of the giant pre-cast deck segments was lowered into place in September 2024.
Since then, Align has been putting the finishing touches to the new landmark. This includes installation of parapet sections, noise barriers, a structural health monitoring system, and waterproofing and drainage.
It means that the Tay Bridge, linking Fife and Dundee, has finally ceded the crown of Britain’s longest rail bridge, a record it had held since 1887.
Billy Ahluwalia, HS2 Ltd’s senior project manager for the viaduct, said: “The completion of the viaduct marks more than 10 years of planning, design, and construction. I’m immensely proud of the level of dedication and professionalism shown by the whole team to maintain high standards of safety and quality, working over land and water to deliver.
“It’s a remarkable achievement. The viaduct is a structure of international significance – a stunning feat of engineering that will no doubt stand the test of time.”
Thameslink supports Autism Bedfordshire
Thameslink staff at Bedford station recently partnered with Autism Bedfordshire to host a community event designed to make rail travel more accessible and less stressful for autistic passengers.
The event, held on 4 September, gave families the chance to experience a train journey in a calm, supportive setting. Visitors toured a stationary train, met railway staff, and learned what to expect when travelling by rail.
Bedford Station Manager Nicola Clark said: “Travelling can be an anxious experience for some customers, and we want to make sure everyone feels welcome and confident using our services. These sessions help demystify the station environment and give people practical reassurance.”
Autism Bedfordshire’s community engagement manager, Sarah Jowett, added: “We are very grateful to Thameslink for working with us to create this event. It provided families with a safe and positive introduction to public transport, and for many, it was their first-ever train experience.”
The initiative forms part of Thameslink’s ongoing accessibility and inclusion programme, which supports customers with visible and non-visible disabilities.
NEWS IN BRIEF
TRAVEL SURGE
Northern has recorded its busiest month of customer travel since before the pandemic, with more than 8.1 million journeys made across its network between 14 September and 11 October 2025.
The figure marks an 8.3% increase compared to the same period last year, and is the highest number of journeys in a four-week window since February 2020.
Demand was boosted by Northern’s recent Flash Sale, which saw customers snap up a record 150,000 advance tickets, priced from just £2.
DOUBLE DECKERS
Eurostar has announced a landmark €2 billion investment in up to 50 new doubledecker trains built by Alstom Group – the first ever to operate through the Channel Tunnel and on the UK network.
Eurostar has confirmed an order for 30 trains, with an option for a further 20, marking a significant step in Eurostar’s growth journey to 30 million annual passengers. The new fleet, named Eurostar Celestia will be a bespoke design created from Alstom’s Avelia Horizon platform. The 200-metre trains will be interoperable across all five countries served today plus new destinations of Geneva and Frankfurt.
LIFESAVING DONATION
Siemens Mobility has donated a former Heathrow Express train carriage to Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, enhancing training capabilities for major incidents and civil emergencies.
The Class 332 carriage, a driver’s cab and passenger section, was part of the first mainline train Siemens Mobility sold and delivered into the UK – operating between Heathrow Airport and London Paddington from 1998 to 2019. The carriage’s new home is at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service’s Central Training Section in Immingham –providing firefighters with realistic scenarios for derailments, road traffic collisions, and terrorist attacks, including casualty management in confined spaces.
ELECTRIC SUCCESS
West Midlands Railway’s (WMR) electric train fleet has carried more than 12 million passengers since completing its rollout on a popular Birmingham route one year ago.
Passengers on the Cross City Line, which connects Lichfield to Bromsgrove and Redditch via Birmingham, first boarded the new Class 730/0 electric train fleet in March 2024, with the full rollout officially completed on 26 September 2024. In their first year, the new trains have proven popular with commuters and leisure travellers alike with more than a million journeys made every single month.
HS2 fossil finds go on display
A selection of fossils discovered during the construction of the HS2 rail project has gone on display to the public for the first time.
The temporary display at Oxford University Museum of Natural History (OUMNH) includes finds made by contractors working on cuttings and tunnels across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and West Northants.
The fossils include the partial remains of marine reptiles called ichthyosaurs, as well as smaller creatures they would have hunted. They provide a valuable insight into life beneath the warm seas which covered large parts of central England during the Jurassic Period between 201 million and 145 million years ago.
Alongside the specimens, the display at OUMNH also shows archive material from Professor John Phillips (1800-1874), the Museum’s first Keeper. Phillips was among the earliest academics to embrace the new opportunities for geological study that were presented by the construction of the British railway network during the 19th century.
A distinguished field geologist and palaeontologist, Phillips was also a prolific writer and an enthusiastic advocate of train travel, collecting fossils during the construction of the new railways between London and Oxford.
His book, Railway Excursions from York, Leeds and Hull (1855), combined geology with commentary on the changing landscape and tips for Victorian travellers.
OUMNH’s Earth Collections Assistant, Dr Emily Swaby, said: “Through this exhibit, we can reflect on how the development of Britain’s railway infrastructure has played such
a pivotal role in advancing our geological and palaeontological knowledge for more than two centuries.
“Without the efforts of geologists and palaeontologists, from pioneers such as Professor John Phillips to the academics involved in HS2 excavations, who carefully documented and excavated the fossils revealed during these infrastructure projects, our understanding of Earth’s history would be far more limited.”
The discovery of the HS2 fossils was coordinated by engineering geologists working for HS2’s main works contractor EKFB – a team made up of Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction and Bam Nuttall.
The contractor team regularly supervises academic geologist and researcher visits to allow sample collection and study of the rocks newly exposed during the works. The first ichthyosaur was found during such a site visit by Dr Murray Edmonds, Sally Hollingsworth and Dr Neville Hollingworth, and successfully recovered for preservation by natural history conservator Nigel Larkin, and ichthyosaur expert Dr Dean Lomax.
EKFB Lead Geologist Giles Hemmings, said: “This year marks the 200th anniversary of the first modern railway and it’s amazing to think how much the construction of the railways has contributed to our understanding of Britain’s geology and the prehistory of these islands.
“That’s why I’m so pleased that all specimens uncovered during the HS2 project will be offered to museum collections, including OUMNH, where they can be studied and made accessible for future research.”
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Customer thanks staff for lifesaving first aid
On Monday 1 September, team members from c2c Railway were delighted to welcome back a customer who suffered a medical emergency at Stanford-le-Hope station.
David Taylor wanted to thank c2c and Amulet colleagues in person for helping to save his life when he suffered a medical emergency at the station in July.
On the morning of Tuesday 29 July, David was waiting for a train on the platform when he suddenly became unwell and lost consciousness. Fortunately, c2c and Amulet colleagues, together with an off-duty nurse, rushed to his side. They began performing CPR before using the station’s defibrillator to resuscitate him – ultimately saving his life. He was then taken to hospital and is now recovering with the support of his family.
Once in recovery and back at home, c2c staff remained in contact with David and his family. David was keen to return to the station to thank staff in person for saving his life.
David said: “I can’t put into words how grateful I am. I’d like to thank the entire c2c and Amulet team for their fast reactions that ultimately helped to save my life – I’m looking forward to getting back to work and spending time with my family.”
Hannah Gerrish, c2c customer delivery manager for the Thameside area, said: “We are incredibly proud of the team at Stanford-le-Hope station for their swift and courageous response to this incident. It was wonderful to see David and our colleagues together again in happier circumstances.
“Thanks to the team’s rapid action and the availability of a defibrillator at the station, David received lifesaving treatment when he suffered a cardiac arrest. Their calm professionalism and decisive intervention made all the difference in a critical moment, while paramedics were called.
“This response is a testament to the team’s dedication to training, teamwork, and care for the public.”
Azuma in-cab digital signalling successfully tested
Testing at speed of digital in-cab signalling has been successfully completed for the train which provides the largest inter-city fleet on the East Coast Main Line.
The iconic LNER Azuma has been put through its paces in recent weeks on the Melton test track through the Leicestershire countryside.
Completing its dynamic testing is a step forward towards providing passengers with more reliable and greener journeys through the Government-funded East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).
The British-built Hitachi Rail train came fitted with European Train Control System (ETCS) in-cab signalling equipment, and has gone through a software upgrade in readiness for using this performance boosting technology on passenger services from next year.
The testing at Melton – using the site’s ETCS capability – proves that the upgraded equipment on the train works well, including its integration with the lineside and signalling centre components of ETCS, in operating conditions.
The collaboration between Hitachi Rail, LNER, Network Rail, and Agility Trains to progress this ‘First in Class’ train is paving the way for all Hitachi Rail’s intercity fleets on the East Coast Main Line to be cleared for operating in passenger services using ETCS.
The milestone is significant not just for the East Coast Main Line but for the wider network’s digital masterplan.
Dr Linda Wain, engineering director at LNER, said: “The ETCS project and in-cab digital signalling is going to deliver real benefits to the East Coast Main Line. It’ll enable us to run our trains in a more environmentally friendly way and allow us to reach new levels of efficiency and safety.
“We’re incredibly proud that Azuma was selected to be one of the ‘first in class’ trains to test this new technology and lead the way for other Class 800 Hitachi fleets. Reaching this milestone is a testament to the close collaboration of all the teams involved.”
With its dynamic testing now complete, the Azuma First in Class will undergo further software development before going through the assurance process for regulatory approvals.
It is expected to take part in ‘system of system’ testing on the East Coast Main Line in the next few months, in parallel with a wider fitment programme across the Class 80x Hitachi fleets.
£46 million depot opens in Yorkshire
A state-of-the-art £46.5 million facility built to keep trains running for passengers has opened in Yorkshire.
The 175-year-old Hillhouse Sidings in Huddersfield has been transformed into a light maintenance depot, as part of the multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU).
Northern staff are now working to maintain, repair, and clean trains at the site, with most of that work taking place overnight so services are ready for the following day.
Known as Hillhouse Light Maintenance Depot, it was officially opened by Northern
at an event in early October. The depot, which is open 24 hours a day, will provide five lines with modern maintenance facilities that can accommodate up to 24 carriages.
Engineers will begin by working on diesel trains on two lines. Another three will be completed in the coming years, before electric and bi-mode services are introduced.
Rob Warnes, Northern’s strategic development director, said: “We’re delighted this depot is now open, following years of hard work and millions of pounds of investment.
“It will play a vital role in ensuring services are in an excellent condition and
run smoothly for passengers along the upgraded Transpennine Route.”
Paul Sumner, senior sponsor for the TRU, commented: “The opening of Hillhouse Light Maintenance Depot is another fantastic milestone for the TRU.
“By transforming this site into a modern, state-of-the-art facility, we’re helping to ensure trains are kept in the best possible condition for passengers across the North.
“This depot will not only support more reliable services today, but it’s also futureproofed for electric and bi-mode trains, making it a key part of building a greener, faster and more dependable railway for years to come”
Alstom employee retires after 50 years
Alstom has celebrated Movements Manager Ken Davies’ career as he retires following more than 50 years’ service on Britain’s railways.
A fitting send-off was organised at Alstom’s Liverpool Traincare Centre on Friday 29 August, where he was surrounded by many of the trains he had worked on over the last five decades – including a Class 390 Pendolino. As part of his final shift, Ken drove Avanti West Coast’s 390200 back into the Edge Hill depot ahead of maintenance work.
Following a series of speeches in front of around 30 colleagues, Ken was whisked away on board a vintage bus from the Merseyside Transport Trust. Ken has been an active member of the Trust for five years, and its 1968 Leyland Panther bus – Liverpool Corporation Passenger Transport No. 1054 – took him and his colleagues on a nostalgic trip across the port city, passing many of the places that have shaped his and his family’s lives.
“My career has taken me across the length and breadth of this country, and around the world. Throughout, I have been supported by the ‘railway family’, who’ve been with me through every challenge and triumph,” said Ken,
who now lives in Ashton-in-Makerfield.
The 67-year-old began his career on the Wirral, progressing quickly through signalling and traincrew roles before moving into senior traffic management positions. Ken joined Alstom in 2002, where he managed the company’s operations along the West Coast Main Line as well as the Old Dalby Test Track.
Ken added: “I had made my mind up at the age of four that working on the railway was what I wanted to do with my life. It’s gone so quickly and I am looking forward to a break, but something tells me this won’t be the last time I am working in this environment. The railway gets under your skin – in the best way possible.”
Ken’s final role at Alstom was to mitigate risks when operational procedures changed, particularly when a new fleet was introduced. Launched in 2012, the Alstom Zero Deviation Plan (AZDP) focuses on high-risk activities to protect all employees and contractors from the risks they may face, and Ken has been instrumental in implementing this across the UK and Ireland.
Earlier this year, Ken was surprised by colleagues at the Alstom Transport Technology Centre in Widnes, where the site’s Class 08 locomotive, 08721, had been fitted with a
plaque bearing his name in honour of his 50 years’ service. The Class 08 then took centre stage at The Greatest Gathering, where it helped move exhibits into place and highlighted the shunter’s importance to Britain’s railways since the 1950s.
Local rail operator c2c Railway has seen a robust resurgence in commuter travel following the launch of Pay as you Go with contactless ticketing across the entire line in February 2025.
Despite modern working from home trends, c2c passenger volumes have recovered to over 80% of pre-2020 levels, while commuter habits have evolved significantly. Season tickets, which accounted for over 40% of c2c journeys in 2019, now represent circa 15%.
Instead, passengers are opting for the flexibility of off-peak daily tickets, reflecting the shift in working patterns in the UK. Mondays and Fridays continue to grow year-on-year, with in-peak journeys across the week growing at around 5% in 2024/25.
In February, c2c became the first railway operator to offer pay as you go (PAYG/ contactless) across its entire network in the UK, simplifying customer journeys and offering a more seamless way to travel. The expansion of PAYG has seen over 60,000 additional contactless taps each week.
Eleni Jordan, c2c’s commercial and interim customer director, said: “We launched PAYG with contactless ticketing in February 2025 and it has been incredibly successful with over one million taps since the launch.
“It provides our customers with another seamless way of using the c2c route, by simply tapping in and tapping out. This provides an easy-to-use solution which offers speed and convenience for every journey – with c2c seeing over 60,000 additional contactless taps each week as a result.
“We realised the challenges of 2025 are different to those that existed before 2020, which is why we have had to evolve to a new way of thinking and embrace the change in customer needs,” she added.
As of July, c2c has recorded over 1,000,000 taps across the line and has added another level in the ease of making a c2c journey. Today, c2c plays a central role in helping millions of commuters from south Essex and east London reach their workplaces every year.
New Street Station marks 10-years since redevelopment
Birmingham New Street has celebrated the 10th anniversary of its £750 million redevelopment, which helped transform it into a modern flagship railway station.
The nationally important station, the busiest outside of London, has welcomed more than 400 million passengers and seen over 3.5 million trains pass through it since it reopened on 20 September 2015.
For the last decade, passengers and shoppers have benefitted from an ever-evolving range of new facilities and retail options, an abundance of natural light from the huge atrium, brighter and better platforms, and direct access to the Grand Central shopping centre above, which was redeveloped at the same time.
The transformed station also ensures direct easy access from trains to all corners of the city centre for shoppers, workers, tourists, and visitors, helping to act as a catalyst for the huge amount of regeneration and redevelopment across the city centre.
The last 10 years have not only offered better facilities and experiences for passengers and benefits for the city and the West Midlands region, but it has also seen the station become an important community, art, and cultural hub at the heart of the city centre.
Network Rail’s Central route, which manages Birmingham New Street, is the heart of Britain’s railway with a focus on supporting the communities the railway serves, and the station plays an important role in this.
Denise Wetton, Network Rail’s Central route director, said: “The last decade has been amazing for Birmingham New Street, passengers and the wider city and region and we have helped get millions of people to and from their destinations safely and reliably.
“There have also been so many memorable events and performances that we have supported and enabled, a highlight being the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games which was so positive and inspirational for the city. But there’s also been more serious times, when thousands of key workers relied on the
railway to be able to continue to help everyone during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Whatever the challenge, good or bad, the station and its amazing team have always stepped up to make sure passengers and everyone else who uses it got the service, help and support they needed.
“We continue to improve the station and there are many exciting things in the future that we will play a key part in, including welcoming the Invictus Games to Birmingham in 2027 and the UEFA Euros in 2028. It’s extra special to be marking this 10 year anniversary during Railway 200 which is all about celebrating the past, present, and the future of rail – which Birmingham New Street most certainly is.”
Network Rail opens emergency training centre
A unique training centre has opened in Birmingham to help prepare transport providers and the emergency services for major incidents on the railway.
The Birmingham Rail Resilience Hub has been created by Network Rail’s Central route to train and develop teams alongside train operators, the police, fire, and ambulance services.
The true-to-life training ground – which includes tracks, trains, level crossings, and all the other equipment and hazards found on the railway – have been mocked up in a purposebuilt facility in Aston so teams involved in managing emergency situations are prepared and ready to deal with them.
It allows for close partnership working between organisations, a better understanding of the challenges there will be in real life scenarios, and the opportunity to learn and improve together in a safe environment.
The new facility means the railway in the West Midlands is now at the forefront of emergency planning and will be a focal point for supporting training and learning nationwide.
It was officially opened by Denise Wetton, Network Rail’s Central Route director, and Martin Colmey, Central Route’s operations director, before hosting its first emergency exercise to demonstrate the types of scenarios and learning that can take place there.
The exercise demonstrated how the rail industry and emergency services would respond to vehicles being struck by a train on a level crossing. With passengers on board, it was shown how the area would be assessed and made safe, before trapped and injured people were rescued, and an investigation into what happened began ahead of reopening the railway.
Organisations involved in the exercise included West Midlands Police, British Transport Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service, West Midlands Fire Service, and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.
Other organisations involved and in attendance included Nimski which provided the roleplay actors for the exercise and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) who independently investigate accidents to improve railway safety, and inform the industry and the public.
Denise Wetton said: “Every day, we work round-the-clock to keep the railway running safely for passengers and freight across Britain. But we must be prepared for all eventualities and this facility puts the West Midlands at the forefront of training, readiness for day-to-day disruption and dealing with major incidents.
“This hub creates a safe, realistic environment which allows the railway, emergency services and industry partners to learn and work together so we are ready to deal with situations in real life.
“We hope the scenarios which will be tested here never happen, but training and learning in this way will help everyone be prepared and ready.”
Northern names train after rugby legend
Northern has named a train after Rob Burrow, to pay tribute to the rugby league legend and motor neurone disease (MND) campaigner.
Artwork which covers two carriages of the Class 195 train and features a photograph of Rob playing international rugby was unveiled during a ceremony at Castleford station.
There is also a timeline inside the carriages marking some of his incredible achievements on and off the pitch.
Northern has been working with Rob’s family and the MND Association to create a design that commemorates his life and raises awareness of the disease, which affects more than 5,000 people in the UK at any one time.
Northern’s managing director Tricia Williams was joined by Rob’s wife Lindsey Burrow and two of their children, Maya and Jackson, for the unveiling. His parents Geoff and Irene Burrow
also attended the event in West Yorkshire.
Lindsey said: “We are deeply honoured that Northern has chosen to name a train after Rob.
“Rob was not only an extraordinary rugby league player, but a devoted husband, father and inspiration to so many.
“Rob’s courage, bravery and tireless advocacy for those living with MND has touched hearts across the nation. By dedicating a train in his memory, this carries forward his legacy and reminds everyone of the power of determination, love, and community.
“Thank you to everyone who continues to support and remember him.”
Tricia added: “I’m so glad members of Rob’s family were able to join us on his birthday for the unveiling of this train and would like to thank them for working with us to make it happen.
“He was an inspiration to so many people across the North, for his immense bravery in the face of adversity and an unwavering dedication
to helping others living with MND.
“Hopefully everyone who sees this train will take a moment to think about Rob’s legacy and join the fight against MND, by making a donation to improve care and fund research into a cure.”
Rob, who died aged 41 in June 2024, spent the last five years of his life working with friend and former team-mate Kevin Sinfield to raise awareness of the condition and millions of pounds of funding for treatment.
Northern employees, who were inspired by Rob’s achievements, Wakefield Council and West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin requested the train naming earlier this year.
ALSTOM CELEBRATES SCOTLAND'S RAIL LEGACY
In this milestone year we have seen communities, companies, and enthusiasts across the UK unite to celebrate 200 years since the birth of the modern railway. From heritage locomotives to the latest in sustainable transport technology, events up and down the country have reflected on two centuries of innovation and progress.
Among the organisations leading these celebrations is Alstom, a name synonymous with rolling stock manufacture and maintenance. The company has played a central role in commemorating Railway 200, paying tribute both to the industry’s proud past and to the technologies shaping its future.
In the previous issue of RailStaff (Issue 298, July–August 2025), we covered The Greatest Gathering – Alstom’s record-breaking celebration at its historic Derby Litchurch Lane Works, which brought together 140 rail vehicles and more than 40,000 visitors.
This autumn, Alstom took the festivities north to Glasgow, opening its Traincare Centre at Polmadie to the public for the first time in a quarter of a century. The event marked a major milestone – Polmadie 150, celebrating a century and a half of service to Scotland’s railways.
Situated two miles south-east of Glasgow Central station, the Polmadie facility is a key hub in the country’s rail operations. It serves as the maintenance and cleaning base for the Caledonian Sleeper, with more than 100 staff providing 24-hour support. The depot also handles around 17 trains daily, including Avanti West Coast’s fleet of Alstom-built Class 390 Pendolinos.
“Polmadie stands as more than a depot – it represents a beacon of engineering excellence and a vital pillar in Scotland’s rich railway heritage,” explains Rob Whyte, managing director UK and Ireland at Alstom. “For 150 years, this site has played a crucial role in keeping the country moving, and we’re incredibly proud of the dedicated teams who continue that tradition today.”
“Opening our doors to the public for the first time in a generation is not only a celebration of our past, but a powerful reminder of the innovation and talent that will drive the future of sustainable rail in the UK. It’s a privilege to honour this milestone with the community, and showcase the people and technology that make Polmadie so special.”
Originally built by the Caledonian Railway Company, Polmadie Shed opened on 16 September 1875 and went on to serve generations of steam locomotives and rolling stock. Some of those early locomotives
returned home for the anniversary celebration on Sunday 12 October, offering visitors a glimpse into the depot’s remarkable heritage.
“Polmadie Depot is a living monument to Glasgow’s proud railway heritage and industrial ingenuity,” says Paul Sweeney MSP for Glasgow, and Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Veterans.
“For 150 years, it has been at the heart of Scotland’s rail operations, and Alstom’s open day is a fitting tribute to the generations of skilled workers who have dedicated their careers to benefiting passenger journeys and freight flows. It’s inspiring to see this iconic site continue to evolve, while honouring its remarkable past.”
More than a thousand visitors made their way from Glasgow Central to the depot aboard a mix of heritage and modern shuttle buses, provided by Glasgow Vintage Vehicle Trust, Scottish Vintage Bus Museum, and McGill’s. They were greeted by an impressive line-up of over 20 locomotives and rail vehicles representing Polmadie’s past and present.
Highlights included:
• Caledonian Railway No. 419 – the oldest preserved steam engine once based at Polmadie, built in 1907 at the Caledonian Railway’s St Rollox Works.
• Class 99 (No. 99001),
Class 92 (No. 92023 Polmadie 150 1875–2025), Class 73/9 (No. 73968), and Class 66 (No. 66710 Karen Harrison) – courtesy of GB Railfreight.
• Class 93 (No. 93006) – provided by Rail Operations Group.
• Class 90s (Nos. 90018 The Greatest Gathering and 90021 Donald Malcolm) –from Freightliner.
• Class 390 (No. 390119 Progress) – an Alstom-built Pendolino operated by Avanti West Coast.
• Unimog U 430 road-rail vehicles – supplied by Network Rail.
Visitors were also able to step aboard Caledonian Sleeper’s Mark 5 coaches, exploring the “hotel on wheels” that has linked Scotland and London since the 19th century. For younger guests, Alstom organised family activities and a miniature railway, operated by the Paisley Society of Model Engineers, helping to inspire Scotland’s next generation of railway talent.
“Polmadie has been an integral part of the Caledonian Sleeper story for generations and it’s fantastic to see it celebrated in this way,” says Graham Kelly, interim managing director at Caledonian Sleeper. “Our trains are maintained here every day by a passionate and skilled team who help deliver a worldclass overnight service connecting Scotland and London. This open day is a brilliant opportunity to honour the depot’s incredible legacy and inspire future generations to be part of Scotland’s rail journey.”
The celebrations extended beyond the open day itself. On the previous day, Polmadie welcomed its first-ever passenger
charter train, giving enthusiasts a rare ride over the depot’s internal lines. Organised by the Branch Line Society, the train – formed of RailAdventure Class 43s and Derby-built Mark 3 coaches from 125 Group – travelled from Alstom’s Derby factory, linking the two Railway 200 heritage sites.
At the same time, visitors to Glasgow Central could explore Railway 200’s exhibition train Inspiration and browse a dedicated marketplace showcasing organisations from across the industry.
To mark both events, Alstom and Network Rail hosted a stakeholder breakfast at Glasgow Central, featuring speeches from key industry leaders including Alan Fravaloni, Graham Kelly, Alex Kirk, and Gerry McQuade. The highlight came with the naming of GB Railfreight’s Class 92 No. 92023 Polmadie 150 1875–2025, continuing a legacy once carried by Virgin
Trains’ Class 87 No. 87023 Polmadie.
All proceeds from the celebrations were donated to the depot’s chosen charities –Beatson Cancer Charity and The Railway Children’s Glasgow Project – with Network Rail supporting the initiative by waiving access charges for the special charter train.
As the festivities came to an end, Polmadie 150 served as a powerful reminder of both Scotland’s proud railway heritage and its ongoing spirit of innovation. For 150 years, the depot has adapted and evolved to meet the changing needs of the railway, powered by generations of skilled engineers and operators.
By opening its gates once again, Alstom not only honoured the past but looked ahead to the next century and a half of progress –inspiring the people who will write the next chapter of Britain’s railway story.
On Thursday 16 October, Network Rail and partners across the Government and railway industry marked the launch of the railway’s first national clock design for over 50 years, at London Bridge station.
The London timepiece by WPP brand design agency Design Bridge and Partners was the winning entry in an international design competition run in a partnership between Network Rail and the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Design Museum.
Selected out of more than 100 entrants, Design Bridge and Partners’ winning piece was chosen as it works as a physical and digital timepiece, while reflecting the design and brand history of the railway and most importantly, make it easy to know what time it is in a busy railway station.
The railway clock has been designed to provide an easy to read and accessible clock that passengers can read on the move, as well as providing a place to meet and help navigate busy stations.
New timepiece marks new beginning
Now created as a huge 1.8-metre physical clock at London Bridge, the rail clock will also appear in digital form on departure boards across the network, launching across several other Network Rail-managed stations today, including London Waterloo, London Victoria and London Charing Cross station.
Anthony Dewar, Network Rail, commented: “Two hundred years after the first railway opened in Britain, we’re about to embark on a new journey as a railway, putting passengers first. Part of that journey will be giving everyone the same positive experience across all parts of the network, and design is central to that.
“A clock is the first thing people look for when they arrive at a station. The railway is driven by time, being ‘on time’ is our promise to passengers, and clocks have always provided landmarks for people to meet at and use to navigate their way around stations. This design provides a proud and eye-catching centrepiece and acts as a brilliant reminder of the new journey we’re about to undertake together.”
Rail Clock was created with advice from accessibility experts, using easy-to-read numbers in a slightly amended version of the railway’s own typeface, Rail Alphabet 2. The famous railway double arrow logo splits and travels round the rim of the clock every 60 seconds, giving a calm centrepiece to bustling stations. Margaret Calvert, designer of Rail Alphabet, and Gerry Barney, creator of the double arrow logo, were consulted in the clock’s creation.
Chris Williamson, president of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), said: “We were thrilled to partner with Network Rail and The Design Museum on this exciting initiative. Architecture competitions are vital for driving innovation, new approaches to design, and showcasing the vast talent within our industry and we look forward to seeing the winning entry come to life and become a central piece to our railways.”
Rail Clock can also be adapted for use in any digital format, from phones to smart watches. Developed in partnership with professional services company Cognizant, the clock will be made available to the public as a watchface via the Android app stores in the coming months. Gerry Barney, creator of the Double Arrow, said: “In 1965, It was wonderful to win the competition to design the symbol of our railway: The Double Arrow”. Now in 2025, I’m thrilled to see the winning entry that continues to celebrate it in a new timepiece for future generations of rail passengers to enjoy – what Design Bridge and Partners have created is really magic.”
Upgrade complete on South East's biggest train fleet
Millions of passengers in the South East have benefited from a mammoth £100 million train upgrade project – the biggest in the UK – with the final unit rolling off the production line this weekend.
The 304th ‘Electrostar’ train upgraded through Project Aurora rounds off a project which has completed on-time and on-budget over the past five years at Southern’s Selhurst depot in South London. It brings reliability and onboard benefits for Southern, Gatwick Express, Great Northern, and Southeastern passengers.
The award-winning works were funded by rolling stock company Porterbrook, the UK’s leading rolling stock financier and asset management company, and completed by a dedicated team of Southern
engineers who have been busy installing plug sockets, information screens, LED lighting, improved WiFi, and a new digital ‘backbone’ to the train which has helped speed up the repairs process meaning trains spend less time out of service.
With more trains added to the scope mid-scheme, Aurora became one of the largest fleet upgrades, with 1,222 carriages completed in time for the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway.
Steve Lammin, GTR’s engineering director, said: “The success of this modernisation scheme has resulted in wide-ranging benefits to passengers on some of the country’s busiest routes and I’d like to thank everyone whose dedication contributed to this.
“A project of this scale to be completed in-house by Southern engineers is a really impressive feat and has been key to the speed we’ve managed to get upgraded trains out and serving customers again.
“I hope passengers are feeling the benefit of these improvements as they use our trains to visit friends and family and explore some of the great destinations our railway has to offer.”
PRIVATE OPERATORS UNDER SCRUTINY
Acombination of new safety concerns amongst those operating and maintaining privately-owned railways, and concerns for volunteers working on railways, are at the heart of my current concerns for railway safety. In addition, in this age of artificial intelligence, keeping drivers informed when speed restrictions are imposed should be relatively easy but, recent incidents suggest otherwise…
ORR’s annual report
I was recruited into employment direct from university as a graduate trainee and my initial training included working, albeit for a short time only, as a trainee trackman often with a ballast shovel and track fork. Railway safety was reinforced by what was then Her Majesty’s Railway Inspectorate (HMRI). When the Health and Safety at Work Act came into being I recall drafting my own detailed Health and Safety policy statement and keeping a record of my site visits and actions.
At the time I was blessed with a local HMRI Inspector who I consulted when revised or new methods of working were being developed. We had a working arrangement which was beneficial to us both. Whenever I was looking at improving our methods of working, our local Inspector made himself available and, together, we developed low risk methods which benefitted us both. The HMRI nowadays reports to, and is essentially part of, the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR).
In its annual report 2024/2025 the ORR claims that its activities provide, “an independent source of expert advice to Government”. It also states that it has and is being used to support the Great British Railways (GBR) initiative. The report draws attention to the progress being made to move train working companies into public ownership. Current Governmental railway reform will transfer responsibilities from Network Rail to GBR. ORR’s role will alter as a result.
The ORR will also change, and already tenders are being sought by mid-October for the provision of consultancy support to the ORR for the future of “regulatory effectiveness and oversight of both GBR and non GBR operators.”
Bluebell Railway near miss
Meanwhile, it is business as usual for the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) with its bases in Derby and Farnborough. It has recently published advertisements seeking applications from individuals who may be trained to become Inspectors.
RAIB’s work in investigating and reporting on incidents and accidents continues, On 9 August at 15:00 there was a near miss at Sheffield Park Station on the Bluebell Railway. It happened when a steam locomotive moved unexpectedly while being coupled to a second steam locomotive. Both locomotives slowly moved together for about four metres. A volunteer staff member acting as a shunter walked along the track in the gap between the two locomotives. The shunter was able to climb onto the platform when the locomotives stopped moving. The shunter was uninjured but shaken.
Dean Forest Railway accident
The Dean Forest Railway is four and a half miles long and described as “the friendly forest line”. On 14 August at St Mary’s Halt Lydney, a footbridge was struck and destroyed by a 360-degree excavator which was being carried on a wagon designed to carry it. However,
the excavator boom was too high to pass under the bridge due to the way the boom was loaded. There were no injuries, but part of the footbridge landed on the train. The train included a guard’s van carrying volunteers.
Gartell Light Railway volunteer injured
The Gartell Light Railway in Somerset was opened to the public in 1991. It has a two-foot gauge, 1.2km long track with a station and depot towards the depot and Common Lane. It is staffed by volunteers and has both diesel and steam locomotives. Common Lane level crossing gates are operated with stop boards and lamps, and only opened by staff when a train needs to pass over.
A works train was preparing to depart from the Common Lane sidings carrying four seated volunteers. The volunteers were seated in the raised end well wagon as shown in the diagram from the report. The person injured was last to join the wagon and was seated on the raised end section (shown as position 5 in the diagram). As the train slowed down, the individual from position 5 alighted to open the gate but their boot got caught up. Their leg was dragged under the leading left-hand wheel.
Rule Book module G1 Section 1.2 is clear and states “you must not get off a moving rail vehicle”.
RAIB’s Safety Digest reminds readers that previous similar occurrences on the Foxfield Light Railway in Staffordshire in October 2010 and Loughborough Central on the Great Central Railway in May 2014.
Speed restrictions overlooked
On 10 June, RAIB published a significant Safety Digest 03/2025 about overspeeds in blanket speed restriction areas on 27 January this year. On 26 January, Network Rail’s Wales and Borders Route Control had decided to impose 50mph blanket speed restrictions due to the forecast of strong winds. Two locations were selected between Swansea and Neath due to “the potential risk of overturning between 06:00 and 18:00 and between Newport and Bishton between 12:00 and 15:00” due to the potential risk from fallen trees. Also on 27 January, while trialling a new route control system at Wales and Borders, eight trains exceeded the 50mph restrictions.
Colin Wheeler.
At 11:53 a train travelled through at 61mph followed by another at 69mph. Both were Transport for Wales trains.
At 12:06, a Cross Country train travelled through the Newport speed restriction at 92mph, followed by another at 91mph. At 12:58 another Transport for Wales train went through at 71mph. At 13:14 the driver of a Great Western train contacted the Severn Tunnel signaller and asked if a banket speed restriction was in place. The signaller said there was no restriction in place.
The two blanket speed restrictions notices were sent by email shortly after midday on 26 January. They were also sent separately to a distribution list that included defined contacts for shift signalling managers who supervise groups of signallers. The email went to the inbox of the Severn Tunnel signalling workstation but not to other workstations of the Wales operating centre. Had the signallers been aware, they could have set up reminder announcements to be sent automatically to trains over the GSM-R radio system as drivers approached the sites of speed restrictions.
Some of the drivers involved expected to receive a radio broadcast on the approach to any speed restriction. The train operating companies confirmed receipt of the notices and that they had displayed them in late
notice cases for the drivers.
One train was involved in route learning under the direction of a driving instructor, but the instructor had forgotten about the restriction.
Unlike other types of emergency and other speed restrictions there were no warnings, reminders, or visual cues available to train drivers relating to these Blanket Speed Restrictions.
The Safety Digest states: “RAIB has published reports into several incidents involving over speeding incidents in both Scotland and North West England as well as Wales.”
More inspectors needed
I was not surprised to discover that RAIB is advertising to recruit additional inspectors.
RAIB selects incident and accident reports, and chooses those where in-depth inquiries are needed, leading to the publication of reports or Safety Digests. Surely the time has come when speed restrictions etc., should be advised using today’s electronic devices not glass topped display cases?
My hope is for a step change as the new GBR organisation is developed.
Incidents of verbal abuse, threats, and outright assaults on staff are increasingly common. Passengers want safer journeys and employees want to feel protected while doing their job. In this climate, body-worn cameras (BWCs) are becoming a key tool to protect front-line teams, deter bad behaviour, and provide evidence when things go wrong.
South Western Railway (SWR) recently sounded the alarm: in 2025, more than two assaults have been recorded against frontline staff across its network every day. These include both verbal abuse and violent attacks. According to British Transport Police (BTP), incidents of violent and public order offences on the network doubled between 2020-21 and 2024-25.
The impact is more than just physical injury: it affects mental wellbeing, degrades morale, increases staff absences, and impacts operational performance. SWR acknowledges that while improved reporting likely explains part of the increase, the trend is consistent with what’s seen in other sectors – such as retail or health care.
STAFF SUPPORT
A long-term study published in 2024, led by the University of Cambridge, an commissioned by the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) and BTP, provides strong evidence for the effectiveness of BWCs in the rail sector. Key findings include: a 47% reduction in the likelihood of an assault occurring against a wearer once cameras are introduced; reductions in injuries, with severe injuries down by about 30.7%, and similar drops in minor injuries; and that the vast majority of front-line rail staff surveyed (around 80%) support full rollout of body-worn video. Meanwhile, SWR’s experience has shown that when staff in customer-facing roles (train guards, gateline assistants, etc.) are using BWCs, it is easier both to deter anti-social behaviour and to gather admissible evidence in legal proceedings.
PUBLIC OPINION
The public is also generally supportive of BWCs. Research by bodycam hardware and software provider HALOS, surveying over 2,200 UK adults, shows that many see body-worn cameras as protective rather than intrusive. Key statistics include:
• 68% believe the main reason for businesses to use BWCs is to protect staff from abuse.
• 60% think BWCs help deter anti-social behaviour in busy settings like train stations or supermarkets.
• 68% say cameras reduce theft and other criminal activity.
• 55% report that BWCs make them feel personally safer.
• 44% admit that knowing staff are wearing cameras would make them think twice about how they act.
However, there are generational differences. For example, nearly 29% of 18-24 year-olds say they feel uncomfortable when retail or security staff wear BWCs; this drops to about 17% among those aged 55 and over. Interestingly, those same younger age groups are also the most likely to alter their behaviour if they know a camera is in use: 65% of 18-24 year olds and 55% of 25-34 year olds say they would change how they act.
DEPLOYMENT
Rail operators are now putting these tools into practice more widely. SWC has been rolling out BWCs for its frontline employees, such as guards and gateline staff, since trials in 2021. The cameras capture footage, including a buffer of around 30 seconds of footage prior to activation, both to deter abuse and to assist with prosecutions.
SWR has also launched poster campaigns to inform the public about cameras being used, the consequences of abuse, and to encourage better behaviour.
West Midlands Railway, meanwhile, reports having 600 cameras across around 70 locations, usable by station colleagues,
conductors, revenue protection, and security teams. Footage is treated with the same care as CCTV, with clear data protection rules concerning who views it and how long it is stored.
BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES
The introduction of BWCs brings a range of tangible benefits for both staff and passengers, from improving safety to strengthening accountability.
The presence of a camera moves behavior towards greater civility, especially in situations of abuse or conflict. People tend to behave more cautiously when they think they may be recorded. HALOS’ data supports that.
Clear video and audio recordings help with investigations and prosecutions. In several cases across rail networks, footage has led to identification and legal action against offenders.
Their use reduces assaults and injuries. As noted, fewer assaults and injuries have been recorded following BWC trial deployments.
Staff report feeling supported. The use of BWCs can help improve morale and reduce fear of abuse; it signals commitment from employers that staff protection matters.
While the benefits of body-worn cameras
are clear, their introduction also brings a number of practical, ethical, and operational challenges that rail operators must carefully manage.
For some passengers, especially younger ones, there is some discomfort and concern around being recorded, even if the cameras are used responsibly. There is also some debate about how visible BWCs should be.
Some argue cameras should be clearly visible to act as deterrents; others say cameras being overly visible may feel confrontational. Clearly, finding the right balance is important.
Questions also remain around data protection and use of footage. For example, who sees the footage? How long is it kept for? And when and how is it stored? All of these matter for legal compliance, trust, and ethics. Rail operators emphasise treating BWC footage like CCTV, with rules on activation, storage, and access.
Then there is the cost of training, and the maintenance of the technology. Rolling out many cameras, training staff on correct usage, handling legal and privacy issues, and maintaining the systems all involve resources. Even with strong evidence of benefits, budgetary and organisational challenges exist.
RESHAPING SAFETY
Given the success seen so far, the rail industry is pushing for broader adoption of BWCs. Already, over 12,200 body-worn cameras are in use by front-line rail staff as of early 2024, with more being added. There is increasing pressure for train operators, Network Rail, authorities, and unions to work collaboratively – ensuring policies are robust, staff are supported, and public concerns are addressed. Communication campaigns like those from SWR help by making the public aware of cameras, what they are for, and the legal consequences of abusing staff. These help both deter bad behaviour and reduce misunderstandings.
Wearable body cameras are more than just recording devices: they are powerful tools for deterrence, accountability, and reassurance. For UK rail staff in customer-facing roles, the technology offers real protection against rising rates of abuse and assault. For passengers, BWCs promise safer journeys, though not everyone is entirely comfortable just yet. What matters now is striking the right balance - ensuring the technology is visible enough to deter abuse but discreet enough not to feel oppressive. Its use must governed with strong privacy and data policies, and accompanied by clear communication so staff and passengers understand how cameras are being used. When done well, body-worn video has the potential to reshape how safety is delivered across UK rail, making journeys safer for everyone who works on and uses the network.
USING DATA TO TRANSFORM SAFETY CULTURES
SAFETY IS A PRIORITY FOR COUNTLESS INDUSTRIES, NONE MORE SO THAN RAIL. HOWEVER, IT REMAINS A WEAK SPOT FOR MANY ORGANISATIONS, AND THE CHALLENGE BOILS DOWN TO HUMAN BEHAVIOUR. EVERY WORKFORCE IS A MIX OF MOTIVATIONS, SKILLS, VALUES, TEAM DYNAMICS, AND BEHAVIOURS, AND IT’S THIS HUMAN COMPLEXITY THAT MAKES SAFETY BOTH ESSENTIAL AND FRAGILE.
Software firm MyPeople offers behavioural talent intelligence solutions that transform how organisations hire, develop, and manage high-performing teams. The company is currently lending its expertise to the rail industry, with which it is working to improve safety culture across the network.
Chief Executive Officer Christian Hughes sat down with RailStaff to discuss the challenge facing the industry and the solution his company provides. He began by explaining how his previous role in sports psychology informs his current work.
“With a background in psychology and data, the first 10 years of my career were spent working in elite sport with teams from British Olympic Cycling, Saracens, and England Rugby.
“The work that we were doing was about understanding the dynamics of teams and how teams influence an individual’s performance. We wanted to understand this from the performance perspective of elite cyclists, examining our development processes and training programmes to assess their effectiveness in improving athlete performance. We found many marginal gains that contributed to a very successful periodnot just for British Cycling, but for all of these teams.
In 2014, after working in the business world and with private equity firms on productivity measures, Christian and his team developed their MyPeople software product. The crux of the company’s work is to help large organisations understand the effectiveness of their training and development programmes, and to address behavioural and hiring challenges.
“The MyPeople platform enables businesses to select and profile individuals and, fundamentally, it tells them whether
particular candidates will be able to work within their team safely and effectively.
“Over the last two years, we've expanded our approach to model the behavioural safety of teams and we now work in many safetycritical industries with customers like Network Rail, where we help them understand how specific behaviours contribute to safe and effective team actions on the railway.
MEASURING COMPETENCE
In the past, says Christian, much like in sport, competence was defined as having the right skills and therefore, it became something of a ‘tick box’ exercise. What we have found is that behaviours of individuals and teams underpin safe performance and so need to be measured and evaluated too. Most accident reports list human factors like communication and situational awareness as contributing factors to incidents.
That said, Christian is quick to praise the rail industry’s work around safety. Indeed, today’s employees are encouraged to speak out and report any safety incidents they might experience or witness. However, this can lead to an increase in incident reports and, at times, new processes being put in place that don’t address the core challenge.
“Our hypothesis is this is a behavioural issue,” says Christian. “For example,
Christian Hughes.
we’ve found that how people speak up about incidents and whether they take action is nuanced by individual personality and the working culture of particular teams. Interestingly, we’ve also found that there are different patterns of safety-related behaviour in different rail regions.
“For example, you may see differences between attitudes to problem solving, confidence in skills, rule adherence, and willingness to act that vary by role and by region. These differences influence how safety briefings are delivered and how on-site safety is managed.”
These regional differences highlight why a one-size-fits-all approach to behavioural safety is limited – which is where MyPeople’s profiling tools come in.
VITAL INSIGHTS
To help the industry meet this challenge, MyPeople has developed a suite of three core safety profiling products.
“The first is our Safety Culture Evaluation tool, which measures the interplay between people, values, and workplace
environments to foster a strong, sustainable safety culture.
“By applying behavioural safety insights and cultural transformation strategies, we help organisations to embed safety as a core organisational value. Our data-driven approach helps businesses to make evidencebased decisions, creating safer and more resilient workplaces.
“Our Safety Hiring tool enables organisations to recruit individuals with the right safety mindset and behaviours. By integrating predictive analytics with behavioural insights, we help businesses identify candidates whose values and risk awareness align with a strong safety culture.
“Finally, our Safety Development product helps individuals and teams build the habits, accountability, and mindset needed for continuous safety performance. The tool provides group-level analysis to balance team strengths, clear coaching actions to support change, and tracks behavioural progress over time to sustain improvement.”
The advantages of MyPeople’s approach are evident. Organisations gain
vital insight into their behavioural risk profile, allowing them to deliver training that builds a common understanding of safe working practices and, ultimately, a safer workforce.
For job candidates, it provides clarity on the behaviours expected of them and highlights any personal biases they may need to manage. On site, the same data can guide targeted interventions and shape more meaningful safety briefings.
SHIFTING CULTURES
Safety in rail has always been about more than processes, checklists, and technical competence. It is shaped by people and their behaviours, values, and decisions under pressure. MyPeople’s behavioural intelligence tools shine a light on this human dimension, helping organisations such as Network Rail better understand the factors that drive safety outcomes. By embedding behavioural insights into hiring, training, and everyday practice, rail companies can move beyond compliance to build a culture where safe behaviour becomes second nature.
In a sector where even the smallest oversight can have far-reaching consequences, that cultural shift could prove to be one of the most important safeguards of all.
SIKHS IN RAIL BUILDING A MORE INCLUSIVE INDUSTRY
BHARATBIR SINGH THIND, CO-FOUNDER AND CO-CHAIR OF SIKHS IN RAIL EXPLAINS MORE ABOUT THIS NEW ORGANISATION
With the rail industry's ongoing commitment to greater diversity and inclusion, it has been rewarding to help advance this mission by founding the first Sikh employee network: Sikhs in Rail - a dedicated community forum established to represent and support Sikh rail professionals across the UK.
The network aims to advocate for the professional development of Sikh employees while ensuring their cultural and spiritual needs are respected. Across the construction and engineering industries, many Sikhs face workplace challenges that conflict with their religious practices. Most notably, this involves mandatory hard helmet policies, often enforced without adequate awareness of the legal exemptions for turban-wearing Sikhs.
For Sikhs, the turban is a royal insignia of the faith – a constant reminder of God’s presence and a symbol of unique identity, sovereignty, and distinction. Practically, it allows a Sikh to be recognised in times of need, aligning with the core Sikh principle of
selfless service to humanity. It is not merely a garment, but a spiritual uniform that must be treated with the highest respect.
This belief is recognised in UK law. Sections 11 and 12 of the Employment Act 1989, amended by Section 6 of the Deregulation Act 2015, legally exempt turban-wearing Sikhs from any requirement to wear helmets. Yet, it can be disheartening for Sikh employees to have to continually defend or explain this right in professional settings.
DEDICATED TO AWARENESS AND EQUALITY. To join the Sikhs in Rail mailing list contact: Sikhsinrail@hotmail.com.
UNDERSTANDING AND INCLUSION
Raising awareness of Sikh practices – and the laws protecting them – is essential. Sikhs in Rail is committed to helping rail businesses and their employees better understand Sikhism, and to support inclusive practices that honour the faith of Sikh colleagues.
Mandeep Singh, global marketing manager, rail at TUV Rheinland, shares: “For decades Sikhs have played an active role in railways, but their stories and experiences, both positive and negative, needed the stage
To be notified of our events and stories follow Sikhs in Rail on Linkedin.
and space to shine. As co-chair, I am excited about the work that Sikhs in Rail has already achieved, and will continue to do so.”
Since its launch, Sikhs in Rail has worked to raise awareness of Sikh identity through educational tours, presentations, and virtual ‘lunch and learn’ sessions. Its inaugural event brought colleagues together for a guided tour of one of East London’s largest Gurdwaras (Sikh temples), offering a safe space for attendees to ask questions about the religion, its places of worship, and its practices.
The day held special significance as all participants took part in the Ardaas and Hukamnama to officially launch the Sikhs in Rail network. Ardaas is a prayer in which Sikhs seek blessings and support from Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal Guru of the Sikh faith. The Hukamnama is a hymn chosen from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, delivered after the Ardaas as divine guidance. This allowed everyone present to witness and take part in a sacred tradition observed before any major life event in Sikhism.
The event concluded with a communal meal in the Gurdwara’s langar (free kitchen), where attendees learned about seva – the Sikh principle of selfless service – and how free meals are shared across all Sikh temples worldwide.
Sarabjeet Kaur, operational delivery lead at Transport for London (TfL) reflected: “It was a joy to share the beauty and values of Sikhi with so many colleagues, and then finishing up with langar – a shared meal that reflects the Sikh values of equality and community. Moments like these not only deepen understanding but also strengthen the bonds between our teams across TfL and with Sikhs in Rail.”
CHAMPIONING GENDER EQUALITY
Following this, Sikhs in Rail has hosted a variety of virtual sessions in collaboration with Sikh charities and organisations, exploring the key principles of the faith. A recent session focused on female empowerment and how Sikhism has long championed gender equality. In contrast to patriarchal traditions that often restrict women’s roles, Sikhism – since its inception – has promoted the spiritual and social equality of women.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, was a revolutionary figure in advocating for women's rights, rejecting societal norms that limited their roles. The Sikh faith not only supports gender equality but actively empowers women in worship, leadership, and service – placing their dignity and rights at the centre of both spiritual and societal progress.
This session was held after the devastating news of a racially-motivated rape of a Sikh woman in Oldbury. The attack highlighted the urgent need to provide a safe and supportive
space for all women. Sikhs in Rail was honoured to spotlight the powerful legacy of Sikh women warriors and leaders in history.
Preet Kaur Durhailay, roadworks officer at TfL, commented: “I was particularly intrigued to hear about how Sikh women have been motivated by their faith to contribute in the modern age by taking leadership roles and navigating through centuries-old cultural obstacles. The talk made me realise that as women in this modern world, our faith gives us the tools and confidence to go forth and do great things without letting anything hold us back!”
BUILDING CONNECTIONS
Sikhs in Rail is now preparing for its first Bandi Chor Divas (Sikh Diwali) event. This celebration will delve into the story behind the festival, which teaches the importance of justice and liberation. The event will also highlight Sikhism’s long-standing encouragement of political involvement and activism.
Special guests will include an esteemed panel of Sikh Members of Parliament: Tan Dhesi, the first turban-wearing Sikh MP in the UK; Preet Gill, the first female Sikh MP; and Jas Athwal, MP for Ilford South. Their presence underscores the growing representation of the Sikh community in UK politics
Sikhs in Rail looks forward to continuing to build connections across industries with individuals and organisations that are championing Sikh identity and values. The network is committed to engaging with other faith-based networks and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) communities to strengthen the rail industry’s collective commitment to inclusivity.
REPORT BY MATT ATKINS
NAMEPLATE AUCTION SUPPORTS TBF
AMerseyrail locomotive nameplate dedicated to the late operations inspector Stuart Mason is set to go under the hammer in November, with proceeds donated to the Transport Benevolent Fund CIO (TBF).
The nameplate, taken from a train that carried Stuart’s name in recognition of his contribution to the Merseyrail network, was offered to TBF earlier this year by contacts at the train operator. It will be sold through specialist railway auctioneers GW Railwayana, giving enthusiasts and collectors the chance to own a piece of Merseyrail history – and support a vital industry charity at the same time.
The opportunity arose when Merseyrail approached TBF to ask if the organisation would be interested in receiving the plate as a donation.
“We’ve always had a great relationship with the train operators,” explained TBF Chief Executive John Sheehy. “In this case, Merseyrail reached out after the plate was removed and suggested we might auction it for charity. It’s a really thoughtful gesture and we’re grateful for their continued support.”
The auction is scheduled for November, and the charity hopes the publicity surrounding the sale will help raise awareness of both Stuart’s service to the industry and TBF’s work supporting transport staff and their families.
Founded over 100 years ago, TBF provides financial assistance, health and welfare support, and practical help to those working across Great Britain’s transport sector. Funded entirely by member subscriptions and donations, the charity offers a vital safety net for individuals facing illness, injury, or financial hardship.
“It’s not the first time Merseyrail has stepped in to support us,” said John. “They’ve helped raise money in the past and have always been quick to think of us when opportunities like this come up. Gestures like these make a real difference to the people we help every day.”
RESPECTED RAILWAYMAN
Stuart Mason passed away in 2012 at the age of 57. Deeply respected and widely admired, he trained, coached, and mentored every current operations manager and inspector, and guided drivers throughout a remarkable 21-year career.
Stuart began his railway journey as a booking boy in the signal boxes around Manchester Victoria station after leaving school. Once old enough, he qualified as a signalman, a role he held for a couple of years before moving to the footplate. He started as a secondman
at Dover before returning to Manchester, where he served as a relief driver at Newton Heath station.
In the early 1980s, Stuart transferred to Southport as a driver and was soon promoted to driver instructor. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as a traction inspector on the Liverpool Division of British Rail in 1988, a role he fulfilled until his retirement in April 2009, once again based at Southport.
The locomotive that bore his name served for over a decade as a moving tribute to his contribution to the railway, and the auction now provides a chance for that legacy to benefit others working in the wider transport community.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The sale reflects a long tradition of nameplate auctions within the enthusiast world, where railway memorabilia often raises substantial sums for charitable causes. Plates linked to well-known figures or operators frequently attract competitive bidding, with collectors eager to secure a tangible piece of railway heritage.
This highlights the strong sense of community that exists across the public transport industry – a network that looks after its own. TBF often works closely with train operators, suppliers, and transport companies nationwide to raise funds and awareness, from sponsored events and membership drives to one-off donations such as this.
For the charity, every pound raised helps provide essential support, including physiotherapy, counselling, convalescent breaks, medical equipment, and grants for those in financial difficulty. “The transport family has always looked after each other,” said John. “Whether it’s a company running a fundraiser or a train operator offering a donation, it all goes towards helping people when they need it most.”
With the auction now confirmed, TBF hopes the story will reach collectors and railway fans across the country. The sale represents not only a chance to own a piece of history but also to give back to the community that keeps Britain’s transport network moving.
The GW Railwayana auction takes place in November, with full details available on the auctioneer’s website. All proceeds from the sale of the Stuart Mason nameplate will go directly to TBF, continuing a legacy of support that honours both a valued colleague and the wider transport family.
Transport Benevolent Fund CIO is a registered charity in England and Wales, 1160901, and Scotland, SC047016.
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Wabtec Faiveley Project Engineer
A LIFETIME OF SERVICE: PAUL BREWER MARKS 40 YEARS IN RAIL
If there’s one thing the railway is known for (other than clean, safe, and efficient travel) it’s the dedication of its staff. Indeed, much is made about the length of service of many its employees who have stayed loyal over many decades.
Because of this, the rail industry maintains a vast wealth of knowledge and experience, a fact we only tend to remember when discussing the pending ‘brain drain’ as employees begin to retire. But surely, it’s something that should also be celebrated?
As we gear up for the RailStaff Awards, our thoughts turn to those who’ve dedicated their entire careers to the industry. Those who may receive a nomination for the Lifetime Achievement Award. One individual who could well be in the running is Paul Brewer, head of operations for rail at Carlisle Support Services.
On 26 August Paul celebrated his fortieth year in the industry. Here, we’re pleased to present his story and fill you in on the role his family has played on the rails over the past two centuries.
A VARIED CAREER
“My family has very deep roots in the rail industry,” Paul told me when we met back in May.
“My Dad, Roy Brewer, was on the railway for almost 40 years, starting off as a fireman on the steam trains, before progressing to become a driver at Fratton, which forms part of what we know as Southwest Railway. He worked his way through the different ranks as shed master at Hither Green. Sadly, he died in service in 1989 whilst station manager at Manchester Piccadilly.
“I remember going with my Dad to the depots at Hither Green and Guide Bridge and seeing all the trains, so the railway was always a part of my life. At that point I didn’t realise I would go on to work in the industry, but I remember being fascinated with all of these locomotives.”
Despite the family background, Paul didn’t really consider it as a career until he was much older.
“I went to school in Wilmslow before going on to college, where I studied computer electronics. I always thought that was the route I was going to go down.
“One day, my Dad asked whether I’d consider a role on the railway and I’d seen that it had given him a rewarding career and had great benefits. As he’d stayed in the industry for so long, I figured it must be a good career.
“My father then pointed out that there were some vacancies for train drivers in the North, so I thought I’d give it a go. After an interview and a few tests, I received a letter asking me to report to Manchester Victoria for the driver’s second man (or assistant driver) course on 26 August 1985.
“I vividly remember my first day arriving at Victoria, being inducted in the offices, and the lift which had an operator. After an introduction at employee relations, we
were ushered into a classroom where I met other new trainees. We were trained in our roles and then sent down to Platform 11, where we booked on and supported the drivers. Walking into the messroom for the first time was quite daunting, with all eyes on me, but it soon became the norm, and I got to know everyone as time passed.” Paul stayed at Manchester Victoria until August 1988 before moving to Old Oak Common to become a driver. By February 1989 he had completed his training and driven his first solo train.
As his career progressed, Paul transitioned to become a traincrew supervisor at Reading, a challenging but rewarding position which, he says, “felt like playing chess”. Next, he became a driver manager, managing day-to-day operations, incident management, and union engagement. Paul served in this role
for several years before an opportunity arose to join Virgin Trains in April 1999.
“Working for Virgin was fantastic, and I even had the chance to meet Richard Branson multiple times,” he says. “He was a very pleasant and genuine individual, always interested in how things were going with the company and his staff. My time at Virgin played a huge part in making me the person I am today.”
Paul stayed with Virgin until April 2010 before moving to Yorkshire to work with Grand Central as a traincrew manager. Despite early challenges with fleet reliability, the company had a great family spirit, and the staff's dedication to excellent customer service was evident, he says.
Sadly, he was made redundant when Grand Central was sold to Arriva, but he returned to London in April 2012 to work with London Overground as a traincrew manager for the North London Line. Though it was a significant change, with trains running every 10 minutes on a busy shared railway, Paul and his team delivered a safe, reliable, and customer-focused network.
As he progressed to become a general manager, managing older stations and their infrastructure posed its challenges, but the experience was very rewarding.
“We formed fantastic relationships with Network Rail and made some huge improvements over the years,” he says. “Some of my most memorable moments with Overground include the 2012 Olympics, the Notting Hill Carnival, and the London Marathon. The staff were fabulous, and the atmosphere was always vibrant, allowing everyone to showcase their personalities.”
In October 2023, Paul was approached about the head of operations for rail role at Carlisle Support Services, where he now works to support various operators and help them deliver excellent customer service.
“Safety has been paramount through my 40 years on the railway and, sadly, I’ve been involved in a number of high-profile incidents, including Ladbroke Grove and Grayrigg. These have taught me a lot about processes and the competencies of staff. Fortunately, these incidents are rare, but they are times that I will never forget.”
He doesn’t dwell on the bad times, however, and has fond memories of his entire career. He also admits to retaining some of the smallest, and seemingly trivial bits of information from his years on the tracks.
“It's funny how as a driver I remember the numbers of some of the trains I drove. The last I drove before leaving the driver grade was 47465 ‘Minerva’. The Class 50 50031 ‘Hood’ seemed to be my regular loco, and 390010 was the first Pendolino I drove as a driver manager for Virgin. I always have a smile when I see it still travelling around the Network.”
“I'm proud to celebrate 40 years in the rail industry. Time has flown by, and it feels like just yesterday that I was an 18-year-old
fresh on the job. I've met amazing people who have supported me throughout my career and the tough times, and for that, I am eternally grateful.”
FAMILY TRADITION
It’s not just Paul’s father who preceded him on the rails. His family connection to the railway goes back to at least the late 19th Century. Paul is in possession of a photograph of his great, great Grandfather, Alfred who was a railwayman in the 1800s, though he’s unsure of what role he served.
“We’ve tried to ascertain exactly what he did, but I think we need to talk to a railway historian who might know more details about the uniform he’s wearing in the picture.”
And, just like Paul’s father, his grandfather, Jack Brewer was also a driver at Fratton.
“I was very young when he died, but from what I can remember he drove steam trains before moving on to the electric units introduced on the Southern Railway. I do recall that he drove the historic Brighton Belle, which was the flagship of Southern Railway’s mass electrification project in the 1930s.”
Closer to the present day, Paul’s older sister, Sharon and brother, Kevin, now retired, were also rail industry stalwarts.
“My sister Sharon started her career around the late 1970s and early 80s. She started work at Waterloo in employee relations before moving up to Manchester to work in HR. She moved back down south to Croydon to work on the recruitment side of things, before moving into the health and safety at Euston. She ended her career working at Kings Cross.”
“My brother joined the railway later in life. He was a car mechanic and brought his skills over to rail in-fitting. Eventually he moved into operations, and he ended his career as a driver manager.”
GREAT INDUSTRY
Paul is rightly proud of his family history and to have worked in the industry for so long. He encourages anyone with even the slightest interest to consider a career in rail.
“Rail is a fantastic industry to work in. It’s going through huge changes at the moment, but it can provide an amazing career for anyone who wants it. Rail has looked after me and done me well. There have been some ups and downs for me personally over the years, but you can expect that in any industry.”
“To all the friends and colleagues who are no longer with us, the laughs, tears, and everything in between, this industry is fantastic, and I would recommend it to anyone. The family feeling still exists, and it's a culture we must never lose.”
With that said, what advice would he give to young people entering the industry today?
“I would encourage people from all walks of life to consider the railway,” says Paul.
“In particular, I’d like to see more women viewing rail as an option. The industry is making changes, but there needs to be greater accommodation around flexible working and inclusion.”
“In practical terms, life seems to move so quickly these days and there are so many distractions. It must be tough for young people coming into rail, having to manage a fast-paced personal life with their operational roles. One thing I never had to worry about was mobile phones or social media!
“Mobile phones and the railway do not mix well. My advice would be to leave them in your bag and just forget about them for the day. There’s a huge safety aspect to this. Rail is an industry where complete situational awareness is essential, and you can’t maintain that with the distraction of a mobile phone.
“We also now live in a 24-hour society, and the railway never sleeps. To keep up, you need to be fit to work. Rest is essential and
you must manage social pressures from family and friends. That applies to learning too.
There are so many opportunities to learn new things in rail, and you’ll need to if you’re going to progress. That said, you’ll need to make time for training and building your knowledge.
“Finally, I’d give young people the same advice that my Dad gave to me in 1985 - ‘do your job and keep your nose clean!’
“That message has served me well over the years!”
Paul's journey is more than a personal milestone – it’s a reminder of the enduring strength of the railway family. His 40 years of service reflect the knowledge, resilience, and pride that keep the industry moving forward. As the next wave of railway professionals step up, his story shows that while technology and times may change, the values of dedication, camaraderie, and commitment remain constant. And that, as much as anything, is worth celebrating.
Alfred John Brewer, Paul's great great grandfather.
Jack Brewer, Paul's grandfather, a driver at Fratton.
Roy Brewer on the footplate.
Roy Brewer, Paul's father.
RAILSTAFF AWARDS HALL OF FAME DAVID MILLAR
Engineers provide the insight and expertise that power the projects and systems our rail network depends on. That’s why the Rail Engineer of the Year Award remains one of the most sought-after honours at the RailStaff Awards.
This category celebrates outstanding engineers whose innovation, technical ability, and problem-solving skills have made a significant impact on the rail industry. Whether in design, maintenance, safety, or project
delivery, nominees have all demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a commitment to enhancing the nation’s rail infrastructure and services.
Balfour Beatty Vinci’s David Millar was named Rail Engineer of the Year in 2023. He oversaw the rail interface management and construction of the West Coast Main Line Bridge and the South Staffordshire Line Bridge – both highly complex projects with demanding deadlines that were completed on time and to exemplary health and safety standards.
David brings us up to date with how his role has changed since picking up the prize.
Could you tell us about your current role and your responsibilities?
At the time I won the Award, I was working for Balfour Beatty Vinci on HS2 looking after the Northern structures and Railway interfaces. However, in February 2024, I was fortunate to take up a post with Amco Giffen as technical engineering manager, covering mainly the North and Midlands Regions. I had previously worked for Amco Giffen as a senior project manager and the move was a good fit for me.
Have you worked on any exciting projects recently?
In the past year I have been leading the Amco Giffen team, challenged with waterproofing the Grade 2 Listed, 220-metre-long Chapel Milton Viaduct in the Derbyshire High peaks. At the end of August we had a nine-day closure of the CNB1 line which takes in the viaduct, having already undertaken multiple 26-hour possessions to fill voids in the structure and install precast units in readiness for the blockade. It has been a complex project with many moving parts.
What opportunities do you think your RailStaff Award has opened up?
I am finally getting around to applying for fellowship of the Institution of Civil Engineers (FICE) and I think winning the award has helped with that. Sometimes, when dealing with clients, site and construction teams can be seen as lacking engineering knowledge. An award like this, along with professional qualifications, helps to dispel this myth.
As well as applying for FICE, I have signed up to become a STEM ambassador. I have also been developing my own engineering website to help engineers, especially designers, get the feedback they often don’t get from construction projects.
What do you think makes the RailStaff Awards so special?
The RailStaff Awards are an integral part of the social calendar – they not only champion the engineering community but also the broader spectrum of the railway family. It is so important to reward these hard-working teams, and I have always been proud to be part of the ‘orange army’ as are my daughter (an ecologist) and son (a labourer/trackman) who have both worked on the railway at various times over the past few years. It turns out Dad does know a bit about the railway after all!
JOIN US AT THE RAILSTAFF AWARDS 2025
As the nights grow longer and the chill of winter sets in, the festiveseason seems a long way off. We all need something to look forward to, and though Halloween and Bonfire Night might offer a spark or two, there’s just one occasion that truly lights up the rail industry calendar.
That’s right — it’s almost time for the RailStaff Awards 2025!
Bursting with excitement, pride, and celebration, the RailStaff Awards is more than just a glittering ceremony. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the people who keep Britain’s railways running –the everyday heroes whose dedication, compassion, and professionalism make the industry what it is.
Whether it’s a colleague who always offers support, an individual who delivers exceptional customer service, or a team making a real difference in their community, the RailStaff Awards shine a light on those who go above and beyond.
AN ALPINE ADVENTURE AWAITS
This year’s theme promises to transport guests to a winter wonderland. On arrival, attendees will step into a snow-dusted Alpine village high in the mountains, where the end-of-season après ski party is in full swing.
Once inside, they can meet friends for cocktails in the venue’s ski lodge or make their way straight to the main bar to mingle, before being seated at their table for a delicious meal.
From twinkling lights to rustic chalet charm, this sparkling evening will bring all the energy of a lively ski resort to Birmingham – no skis required!
Expect a fast-flowing evening of fun, festivity, and plenty of surprises as you celebrate your friends’ and colleagues’ achievements in style.
GUIDING THE EVENING
Leading this year’s celebration is broadcaster, journalist, and former politician Michael Portillo, whose wit, warmth, and unmistakable flair have made him one of Britain’s most recognisable personalities.
Michael first rose to prominence as a cabinet minister in the 1980s and 1990s, before embarking on a hugely successful broadcasting career. His deep-rooted passion for trains has taken him across the globe as the host of hit television series including Great British Railway Journeys, Great Continental Railway Journeys, and Great American Railroad Journeys.
Beyond his railway adventures, Michael’s work on history, politics, and culture – not to mention his colourful jackets and engaging storytelling – have won him fans across generations. With his lifelong love of rail travel and effortless charm, he’s the perfect host for this year’s RailStaff Awards.
CELEBRATING THE BEST IN RAIL
Over the course of the evening, Michael will reveal this year’s winners – the individuals and teams whose hard work and dedication have left an indelible mark on the industry.
The 2025 awards categories include:
• Apprentice of the Year Award
• Charity Award
• Customer Service Team or Person Award
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Team or Person Award
• Graduate of the Year Award
• Health & Wellbeing Team or Person Award
• HR & Recruitment Team or Person Award
• Innovation & Technology Team or Person Award
• Learning, Development & Investing in People Award
• Lifesaver Award
• Lifetime Achievement Award
• Project Team or Person Award (Over £5 Million)
• Project Team or Person Award (Under £5 Million)
• Rail Ambassador of the Year Award
• Rail Engineer of the Year Award
• Rail Manager of the Year Award
• Railway Depot Team or Person Award
• Safety Team or Person Award
• Station Staff Team or Person Award
• Sustainability Champion of the Year
With nominations now closed, you can find all the finalists at www. railstaffawards.com.
THE PARTY BEGINS
After a fine dining experience and the presentation of the awards, the celebrations truly take off. Fairground rides spring to life, casino tables open, and the dance floor fills with guests ready to party the night away.
As midnight approaches, breakfast rolls are served to fuel those still going strong — a fitting finale to a night that promises laughter, joy, and memories to last well into 2026.
BOOK YOUR PLACE TODAY!
Each year, the RailStaff Awards brings together hundreds of colleagues, friends, and industry leaders for an unforgettable evening of celebration. With fine food, great entertainment, and a party atmosphere like no other, it’s an event not to be missed.
So, dust off your glad rags and get ready for the industry’s biggest night of the year!
Tickets for the RailStaff Awards 2025 are available now. Don’t miss out on this spectacular celebration of the industry’s finest.
RAILSTAFF AWARDS HALL OF FAME LOUIS SZYMANSKI
The Graduate of the Year award recognises outstanding individuals who have completed a graduate program and are already making significant contributions to the rail industry. Our judges are on the lookout for those who embody passion, creativity, and leadership, and demonstrate exceptional talent and innovation.
In 2022, Louis Szymanski, then a junior project controls assistant at D2 Global, proudly took home what was then named the ‘Graduate or Newcomer of the Year’ award after making a significant contribution to the business in a short space of time. He had made himself an integral part of both the D2 Rail Project Controls Team and the TransPennine Route Upgrade (TRU) West Alliance Planning & Controls Team, since joining the company in August 2020.
Louis proved in a very short space of time that he was extremely competent and adaptable, with incredible people skills and emotional intelligence, and had impressed colleagues with his dedication, compassion, and professionalism. On top of this, Louis also founded the Equality Diversity and Inclusion group at D2 Rail and was a volunteer on the TRU West Equality Diversity and Inclusion group as an ED&I Champion.
Here, he tells us how things have changed since the big night.
Has winning the award opened up any new opportunities for you?
Absolutely. D2 Global places significant focus on training and development, and through a combination of on-the-job learning from industry experts and recognised professional qualifications, I’ve been able to progress from more junior project controls positions into my current role as a risk analyst. Winning the award certainly added to my confidence and visibility within the industry.
Can you tell us about your new role?
As a risk analyst I am now supporting the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) West Alliance. TRU West is an upgrade to the Transpennine Railway between Manchester and Leeds and is one of the largest infrastructure projects in the UK.
In my role, I’m responsible for establishing the framework that enables delivery teams to effectively identify, assess, evaluate, and manage project risks that could impact the budget or schedule.
It’s a varied role that involves engaging with a wide range of project stakeholders, and it’s a privilege to contribute to a project that will bring tangible benefits to the region’s population –myself included!
Why are the RailStaff Awards so important to the industry?
I think it’s hugely important to recognise the professionals who have made a significant contribution to the rail industry, and the RailStaff Awards continues to lead the way in doing just that. The wide range of award categories gives centre stage to the ‘unsung heroes’ who keep our fantastic industry moving forward.
ResponSec: HIGHLIGHTING HEALTH & WELLBEING
The backbone of the rail industry is its wonderful workforce. Whether at stations, depots, in offices, or anywhere else in between, rail staff keep the wheels turning. As such, their physical and mental health is critical to the network’s safe and timely operation.
The Health & Wellbeing Person or Team Award celebrates the individuals and teams who have championed outstanding practices in this area through innovative and proactive initiatives, helping others to lead healthier, happier lives.
In 2025, the Award is sponsored by ResponSec Ltd which provides a wide range of security services across numerous industries.
“The company was initially set up to serve live music and sporting events in London and the surrounding counties,” says Managing Director Daniel Blackwood, “but in the last few years has been lending its expertise to the rail industry. I’ve always had a passion for the rail industry and helping to make the railways safer has been a dream of mine for some time.”
In recent years ResponSec has supplied travel safety and welfare officers for Govia Thameslink Railway, and safety, security, and enforcement officers for London Overground. The very nature of the work means that ResponSec is all too aware of the pressures on staff and the toll it can take on their mental and physical health.
“It’s a tough job for our staff because they’re never sure what situation will arise. No two days are the same, and security staff have to deal with a lot of unpleasant scenarios,” he says.
CREATING SAFE SPACES
At last year’s RailStaff Awards, Bianca Molloy, joint managing director at TES 2000 Ltd, stood out among the finalists in the Health & Safety category. Having not only embraced her own journey of selfdiscovery and acceptance, Bianca had also transformed the company’s workplace culture to prioritise the wellbeing of all its employees.
Her path to understanding herself has been profound, shaped by her diverse background and recent diagnosis of autism and ADHD. She has used her experiences to foster empathy and adaptability in her leadership and had turned her sense of ‘otherness’ into a powerful tool for creating an inclusive environment.
“I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved tonight and the amazing effort of all our team,” said Bianca on accepting the award. “This means so much to me because it reflects something I’m truly passionate about: creating spaces where people feel safe to be themselves, whether they’re having a great day or a tough one.”
AWARDS WINNERS
ResponSec also celebrated success in 2024, taking home the Safety Person or Team Award. In response to rising staff assaults and anti-social behaviour, Arriva Rail London (ARL) had increased highvisibility security on the Overground network. ResponSec deployed two teams of safety, security & enforcement officers for a 16-week trial to boost staff confidence, reduce assaults, and support revenue operations. The team patrolled 1,763 trains and handled 280 antisocial behaviour incidents. As a result, over 80% of ARL staff reported feeling safer, and 77% noticed a decrease in workplace violence.
“When our name was called it took a few seconds to sink in and head to the stage,” said Daniel. “I am so proud of the teams that worked on this project and the work they do to make passengers and staff feel safe.
“The RailStaff Awards is a great event for staff who are on the ground. They’re out there everyday, whether that’s on trains, at stations, or doing maintenance, and these Awards really show them that they are appreciated.”
Proud sponsors of the RailStaff Awards
GTR:CHAMPIONING HR AND RECRUITMENT
Railway companies understand the importance of keeping pace with evolving employment laws, recruitment standards, and health and safety regulations – and it’s up to the industry’s army of HR and recruitment specialists to ensure these are upheld when managing staff and bringing in new talent. These professionals are the driving force that keeps the rail industry running smoothly, supporting a diverse, safe, and motivated workforce.
The HR and Recruitment Team or Person Award celebrates individuals and teams who have demonstrated excellence in the strategic management of people, showing exceptional achievement and innovation in attracting, selecting, and developing top talent.
In 2024, the award was presented to Network Rail’s Volume Resourcing Team, whose dedication, collaboration, and peoplefirst approach impressed the judges. The team showed exceptional skill in delivering the best outcomes for both candidates and the organisation, embodying the very best of what HR in rail can achieve.
The Volume Resourcing Team manages every stage of the process – from attraction to onboarding – across all of Network Rail’s routes and regions. They take pride in ensuring that every candidate is supported, and that each recruitment experience reflects Network Rail’s values.
The team was particularly recognised for its thoughtful handling of candidates with disabilities and reasonable adjustment requests, ensuring fairness and accessibility for all. It’s this forward-thinking attitude, combined with compassion and teamwork, that earned them the top honour at the RailStaff Awards.
Sarah Goodrum, head of Volume Resourcing, expressed immense pride when accepting the award on behalf of her team.
“We’re all thrilled, if a little shocked,” she said. “It’s a great pat on the back and a testament to the work we do day in, day out. It’s taken some time to build this brilliant team, but we’re cooking on gas now. This has been a great night for all of us.”
This year, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) proudly steps up as sponsor of the HR and Recruitment Team or Person Award. Home to the well-known brands Southern, Gatwick Express, Thameslink, and Great Northern, GTR operates one of the largest rail networks in the UK – with more than 300 stations, over 7,000 employees, and around a quarter of all passenger journeys nationwide.
Since its formation in 2015, GTR has been committed to improving journeys, investing in modern trains, better stations, and smarter technology to enhance passenger experiences. But its investment doesn’t stop with infrastructure – it extends to people. GTR continues to prioritise employee development, diversity, and wellbeing, fostering an environment where colleagues can thrive and grow.
By sponsoring this year’s award, GTR reinforces its belief that great railways depend on great people – and that the HR and recruitment professionals shaping the industry deserve recognition for keeping the sector strong, inclusive, and ready for the future.
HENDERSON & TAYLOR:
CELEBRATING SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS
Throughout the year, the Rail Media team works tirelessly to make each RailStaff Awards night bigger and better than ever before. Months of planning go into every detail – from perfecting the theme, booking guests, and confirming sponsors, to ensuring the event runs seamlessly to schedule on the night.
Behind the scenes, ideas are constantly exchanged and refined as we look back on what has worked well in previous years and where we can improve to deliver an even more memorable celebration.
As the rail network continues to evolve, so too must the awards that celebrate its people. The industry never stands still, and our categories need to reflect the breadth and diversity of modern railway roles. Every year, we review our line-up and ask ourselves what remains relevant, what needs updating, and where new recognition might be due. It’s a process that ensures the RailStaff Awards stays in tune with an industry that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and progress.
A NEW AWARD!
In 2025, we’re proud to introduce a brandnew category – the Project Team or Person (over £5 million) Award. This new honour recognises individuals or teams who have successfully delivered large-scale railway projects exceeding £5 million in value.
From complex infrastructure upgrades to station redevelopments and signalling improvements, such projects demand exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to unite multiple disciplines towards a shared goal. The award celebrates the people whose vision, coordination, and hard work bring transformative rail schemes to life, shaping the network for generations to come.
Sponsoring this year’s inaugural award is Henderson & Taylor, a highly respected multi-disciplinary contractor which works across the Highways, Civil Engineering, and Rail Infrastructure sectors. The company’s core services include infrastructure projects, public realm improvements, road surfacing, structures, traffic management, and highways recycling. Within the rail sector, Henderson & Taylor is well known for delivering high-quality station upgrades and associated improvements that enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.
RESPONSIBLE INNOVATION
With over 60 years’ experience, Henderson & Taylor has built a reputation for reliability, quality, and innovation. Its 26-acre recycling and concrete batching facility in Thurrock supports the company’s drive to maximise recycling and reuse across projects. This commitment to responsible innovation makes Henderson & Taylor an ideal partner for an award that celebrates excellence in delivering major projects.
Matt Lynch, managing director of Henderson & Taylor said: “We’re delighted to have to opportunity to support the award for the best Project Team or Person (over £5 million). As a company which strives to showcase quality and innovation in rail schemes using our own inhouse resources, we understand the tremendous effort and expertise it takes to truly excel in the delivery of these bigger projects.
“The Rail Staff Awards are a brilliant occasion to recognise the incredible work our people and teams achieve, and we look forward to celebrating the best within the industry together.”
Partnerships with industry leaders like Henderson & Taylor help ensure the RailStaff Awards remains a true celebration of excellence across the sector. By recognising those who deliver complex, highvalue projects, this new award highlights the skill, dedication, and innovation driving Britain’s railway forward.
It’s a fitting reminder that behind every successful scheme there are people whose hard work keeps the industry moving and improving year after year.
REFLECTING ON A LIFETIME IN RAIL HOWARD SMITH OBE:
After nearly four decades in the railway industry, Howard Smith OBE, director of the Elizabeth line, is retiring from Transport for London (TfL). Speaking to RailStaff, he reflects on a career that has spanned from the Channel Tunnel to Crossrail and beyond. He shares his early experiences, lessons learned, and the evolution of rail safety and professionalism.
Thanks for joining us, Howard. You’ve had a long and distinguished career in rail – could you give us a brief overview of your journey?
I started just over 39 years ago on the old British Rail Operations management graduate scheme. There are so many people from my intake still working in rail, at Network Rail, TOC’s, RSSB and elsewhere, it was quite an exceptional year in that respect.
and Belgium, mainly intermodal and import and export of new cars. I was also involved in the commercial side, selling to freight forwarders and road haulage groups. This was tough, but it taught me a lot about the need for rail to be competitive and the realities of operating in a pan-European transport market.
When rail freight was privatised, I decided to move to Docklands Light Railway (DLR).
For the first five years, I was running passenger stations and tracks. Back then, before the railway was split into Network Rail and the operators, you were responsible for everything within your area – a group of eight to ten stations, the tracks, the signal boxes, and all the associated infrastructure but also the stations, rosters, ticket offices, and so on. It was a huge responsibility but a great learning experience.
After that, I joined the Channel Tunnel project, working on the planning and delivery of the first freight services. We used to run up to 13 trains a night from the UK to Northern Italy, Southern France, Paris,
That was 26 years ago, and it was a huge shift. At the DLR I led the City Airport extension, the Woolwich extension, and the three-car upgrade in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics. This was a major component of TfL’s infrastructure upgrades for the Games. In 2004, we established a division of TfL called London Rail, which brought together DLR, London Overground, and trams. We were effectively creating a coherent orbital network for the capital out of several separate lines. Around 2006, attention began to turn seriously to what was then known as Crossrail. After the success of the Olympics – where I was one of five senior
transport officers responsible for operations during the Games – I joined the Crossrail project full-time in 2013.
It was an incredible opportunity to help mobilise the operations, maintenance and engineering teams, specify rolling stock, and work with the project teams and the operator, MTR, to get the new railway built and ready. It took longer to open than any of us originally expected, but once the Elizabeth line launched, it was an absolute joy to see it come to life and perform so well.
Now I feel it’s the right moment to step back from running the Elizabeth line itself. The railway is running very well, the new Concessionaire, GTS, is in place, and next month construction begins on the additional 10 Class 345 trains at Derby. It’s as good a time as there will ever be to hand things over.
How did you come to work in the rail industry? Was it a lifelong ambition, or something you fell into by chance?
It’s probably a little bit of both!
My father worked for London Transport, though that wasn’t the reason I joined rail –it just meant I was familiar with the network when I growing up. My parents didn’t drive, so we travelled everywhere by train and, as a Londoner, I developed an early appreciation for how essential railways are to the city.
I remember as a 12-year-old travelling across London to buy bike parts and using the old North London line, which in those days was pretty run down. Even then, I had a sense of how important the railway was to the city, and how much better it could be.
I studied economics at the London School of Economics (LSE) and when I graduated, I had two offers – one to teach economics, and another to join the British Rail graduate scheme. I remember someone saying, “You can always go into teaching later, but you can’t easily go back and join the railway.” That stuck with me.
So, I joined the railway, and within a year I realised I absolutely loved it. The graduate training was fairly unstructured – a lot of time spent shadowing people like driver
managers, signal inspectors, and response teams – but it was fascinating. It gave me a deep appreciation for the mix of technology and people that makes rail so unique.
That’s still what keeps me interested today: the combination of technical complexity, human skill, and public service. If it were purely technical, it would feel soulless. But in rail, you have both – people operating technology for the benefit of society – and that’s endlessly motivating.
Who have been the biggest influences or mentors in your career?
You learn from a lot of people over the years. The person who probably had the biggest influence on me is Ian Brown. Ian was managing director of International Freight at BR and later went on to lead DLR and London Rail, which is how I ended up moving there. He’s still very active, even in retirement, and remains a huge influence on the industry.
He really stands out as the person who connected to many of my different experiences – freight, DLR, London Rail, and eventually Crossrail. I owe a lot to him.
I’ve also been lucky to work with people like Chris Green, who set up Network SouthEast in the British Rail days (a coherent regional network for London and the South East) and later Virgin West Coast, before returning as an advisor to Crossrail. And of course, within TfL, I’ve worked with a succession of exceptional Commissioners and Mayors, each bringing different priorities but all deeply committed to improving London’s transport.
You’ve worked on some of the UK’s biggest rail projects. What have been the biggest challenges?
There have been plenty! My early operational years were quite tough - as a station manager, you had real safety accountability. I was managing Balham station at the time of the Clapham rail disaster. By coincidence, I was dealing with an unrelated incident at Balham that morning; otherwise, I would have been early on the scene. It was a deeply sobering period – that disaster, and the King’s Cross fire shortly before, marked a turning point for rail safety. Everyone who worked through that era still remembers it vividly, and we’ve come a very long way since then.
The Channel Tunnel years brought its own challenges. We were dealing with two national rail systems that didn’t always see eye-to-eye. Someone once pointed out that 100% of the UK’s international rail traffic went to France, but only 1% of France’s went the other way! It made for some interesting dynamics.
On the project side, every scheme has its hurdles. The DLR extensions and
London Overground upgrades were very successful, but each involved complex public inquiries, technical constraints, and tight deadlines. Even the Emirates Air Line cable car – which I oversaw with Mace – was a fascinating challenge. I still remember taking Boris Johnson and Arnold Schwarzenegger on it during the last day of the 2012 Olympics. That was definitely one of the more surreal moments of my career!
The Olympics themselves were nervewracking in the lead-up, but a pleasure once they started. Transport worked brilliantly, largely because of the meticulous planning. It was a joy to walk around stations and control centres and see everything running so smoothly.
Crossrail was, of course, another major challenge – particularly in 2018, when it became clear that the opening would be delayed. That was not a pleasant moment, to put it mildly, but the arrival of strong leadership from people like Mark Wild helped turn things around. In hindsight, those setbacks were relatively modest bumps in a historic and successful journey. At the time, though, they were tough.
What have been the biggest changes in the industry during your career?
The industry is far more professional and safety-focused now. In the 1980s, railways were still very much an old-style, semiindustrial environment. Today, they are complex, customerfacing organisations run to high standards, with well-trained, multidisciplinary teams.
Safety has improved beyond recognition – and not just in physical systems but in culture, attitudes, and accountability. People now think and act differently, and that’s probably the most important evolution of all.
At the same time, the industry has become more complex –sometimes overly so. The fragmentation that came with privatisation introduced competition and innovation but also layers of contractual and political complexity that can slow things down and increase costs. With Great British Railways (GBR) on the horizon, there’s a real opportunity to simplify things again.
We need to keep the professionalism and standards we’ve built but also recover some of the simplicity and clarity that characterised the old railway. Ultimately, the focus should always come back to safety, reliability, and passenger service.
Looking back, what are you most proud of?
It’s very hard to pick just one thing, but the Elizabeth line stands out. Seeing it open and perform so well after so many years of hard work – that’s immensely satisfying. But I’m also proud of the smaller things: mentoring colleagues, supporting teams through difficult periods, and helping create an environment where people genuinely enjoy working.
The rail industry is full of people who care deeply about what they do. That’s what’s kept me here all these years – the people, the purpose, and the knowledge that what we do matters.
What’s your advice to people entering today’s rail industry?
The thing I always tell people is: seize your opportunities. Don’t overthink your career plan. I never had a detailed plan – I just followed what looked interesting and involved good people. That’s served me well.
It’s good to be ambitious, but don’t rush. Take time to learn properly, to understand the business, and to enjoy what you do.
If you spend your whole career chasing the next grade, you risk ending up knowing a little about a lot, rather than developing real depth.
The railway rewards curiosity, commitment, and collaboration. If you engage with it fully – technically and socially – it’s one of the most fulfilling careers you can have. And as I often remind new entrees, once you’ve caught the rail bug, you’ll probably never want to leave.
Finally, what’s next for you? Are you planning to retire fully or will you stay involved in rail?
I haven’t decided exactly what comes next – though I’m sure it won’t be ‘nothing’!
I’m not a slippers-and-deckchair sort of person. There are plenty of things outside work that I’d like to spend more time on, but I’m sure I’ll stay connected to rail in some form.
The nice thing about the industry now is that when you move on, you don’t really say goodbye forever. It’s such a connected world that you inevitably cross paths with people again. That continuity is part of what makes rail so special.
Leaving the Elizabeth line is bittersweet, but it feels right. It’s running brilliantly, the team is excellent, and it’s time for new leadership to take it forward. I’ve been privileged to play a small part in building something that will serve Londoners for generations. That’s a legacy I’ll always be proud of.
Richard Ellis-Edwards joins Resonate
Resonate Group has appointed Richard Ellis-Edwards as head of client development, bringing over 20 years of rail industry expertise across the UK and Europe to drive sustainable growth in data-driven rail and traffic management technologies.
In the role, Richard will be responsible for facilitating growth with Resonate's existing client base, working closely with teams across the business, while also seeking expansion into new routes and opening up fresh market opportunities.
He has built a career spanning operations, fleet and maintenance management, as well as contract and programme management. Over the past 12 years he has held senior positions with a strategic focus on growth and business development at Nomad Digital (Alstom), Frequentis, and most recently Arcadis, covering critical communications, enterprise asset management and professional services.
Richard has led the rollout of Connectivity Solutions and Driver Advisory Systems for CrossCountry Trains, pioneering an industryfirst approach to the UK Government for high-speed trackside communications operations, maintenance and lifecycle modelling, and earning a Railway Golden Spanner award for the CrossCountry Trains fleet, recognised as the most reliable.
"I'm delighted to be joining Resonate at such an exciting time for the business, with sights firmly set on growth and expansion,” said Richard, “The rail sector is undergoing rapid digital transformation and there is a real opportunity to deliver value for clients and passengers through data-driven innovation to create a safer, sustainable and more reliable railway.
I look forward to working closely with our customers to help shape the future of railway operations."
Huw Merriman joins High Speed Rail Group
The High Speed Rail Group (HSRG) has announced the appointment of former Rail Minister and Chair of the Transport Select Committee, Huw Merriman, as nonexecutive chair of the HSRG.
Huw served as Conservative MP for Bexhill and Battle constituency from 2015 to 2024, and was Minister of State for Rail, HS2 and Regional Transport at the Department for Transport between October 2022 and July 2024.
Prior to holding ministerial office, Huw was Chair of the Transport Select Committee for almost three years, and a member for seven years, and also served as Parliamentary Private Secretary at both the Department for Work and Pensions and HM Treasury.
Commenting on his appointment, Huw said: “I have long championed rail as central to driving economic growth, connecting communities and supporting a more sustainable transport network. The UK now
Mark Hopwood CBE steps up at CIRO
Jim Meade is stepping down as chair of the CIRO board after guiding the institution through a period of change and innovation. He is succeeded by Mark Hopwood CBE, managing director of Great Western Railway, who will take on the role of chair. This transition ensures continued strong leadership as CIRO supports members and partners across the railway industry.
Mark brings more than 30 years of experience in rail leadership. As managing director of Great Western Railway, he has overseen one of the
UK’s largest train operating companies, leading a complex programme of modernisation including fleet renewal, timetable transformation, and customer service improvements.
Mark has also held senior leadership roles across the FirstGroup portfolio, including interim managing director of South Western Railway, and has built a strong reputation for collaboration, operational delivery, and customer focus. His contribution to the industry was recognised with a CBE in the 2020 New Year Honours.
On taking the new role, Mark said: “I’m honoured to be appointed chair of CIRO at
such a pivotal moment for our industry. This new era for rail is an exciting one that will demand fresh thinking, sharper skills and closer collaboration to realise its full potential. The institution has already redefined its mission and values, and is now laying the foundations for a more visible, collaborative and influential role across the sector.
“My priority will be to build on this strong platform to put people at the heart of that journey – ensuring CIRO not only supports but actively accelerates the development of rail professionals. By inspiring the next generation and strengthening the expertise of
stands at an important crossroad for high speed rail. While progress on HS2 since the reset is encouraging, crucial decisions on Northern connectivity are still awaited. It is vital that these decisions fully reflect the opportunities for improved connectivity, increased capacity and regional growth.
“Developing a national, integrated rail network that connects North, South, East and West is in the national interest so I look forward to supporting and advising the High Speed Rail Group as it continues to make the case for high speed rail as a driver of national prosperity, innovation and opportunity.”
today’s leaders, I want CIRO to be the first choice for anyone who sees their future in railway operations, and a driving force in shaping the railway of tomorrow.”
PEOPLE MOVES
AECOM welcomes Steve Highman to executive team
Global infrastructure firm AECOM has announced the appointment of Steve Higham as managing director for transportation in Europe and India. Steve will lead the company’s transportation business in the region. He also joins the regional executive leadership team.
A civil engineer with 28 years’ experience in transport and infrastructure engineering, Steve joins AECOM from SYSTRA, where he was managing director of its UK & Ireland engineering business and a member of the SYSTRA Ltd Executive Committee. He has extensive experience in delivering major infrastructure projects and managing complex stakeholder relationships.
“We’re delighted to welcome Steve to the team,” said Richard Whitehead, chief executive, Europe and India, AECOM. “His deep expertise in delivering large-scale transport projects and building trusted client relationships will be instrumental as we continue to grow our transportation business and deliver transformative solutions for our clients and communities across the region.”
“I’m excited to join AECOM at such a pivotal time for the transport sector, as governments across Europe increase investment in infrastructure,” said Steve.
“In the UK, the government’s strong commitment to accelerating infrastructure delivery offers significant opportunities for the sector, and I look forward to supporting our clients through this transformative period. It’s a privilege to lead such a talented and diverse team as we work together to deliver resilient, innovative, and better-connected transport solutions.”
Rachel McLean to retire from TfL
Rachel McLean, Transport for London’s (TfL) chief finance officer (CFO), will be retiring from TfL in February 2026.
Her career shaping London's transport network has seen her play a central role in enabling TfL to achieve an operating surplus for the first time in its history, securing the first long-term capital funding agreement with Government since before the pandemic and delivering the game-changing Elizabeth line.
Rachel was appointed as TfL’s CFO in October 2022 and was previously the CFO for Crossrail and finance director for operations, having re-joined TfL in January 2020 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government where she was a board member and the director generalCFO.
Rachel was also previously the director of planning, performance, and finance at HMRC Customer Services.
London’s Transport Commissioner, Andy Lord said: “Rachel’s retirement marks the close of an extraordinary chapter. Over her tenure she has led TfL to its first-ever operating surplus, delivering this milestone for two consecutive years, and with a third year of surplus set as our budget for this year.
“Rachel’s ability to influence and engage stakeholders at every level has been a defining
strength. Her clarity, credibility, and calm leadership have earned trust across both central and local government, industry, and within our own teamshelping us navigate complexity with confidence. We wish her a happy and fulfilling retirement.”
Rachel said: “It has been an immense honour and privilege to play a small part in the success of TfL and this wonderful, vibrant city we serve. Even though I am retiring, I am confident that the exceptional leadership and committed teams working at TfL will make even greater progress in the months and years ahead.”
TfL has commenced a recruitment process to appoint a successor to the role.
Chair of Transport for the North steps down
Lord Patrick McLoughlin is standing down this autumn after more than four years as chair of Transport for the North
As chair, Lord McLoughlin has worked with the North’s political leaders to agree its second Strategic Transport Plan to unlock sustainable, inclusive growth through better connectivity. He led the TfN board as it opposed plans to close rail station ticket offices at stations, a proposal ultimately dropped by the government, and has been a strong advocate for greater rail infrastructure and services investment to give the North’s communities and businesses the transport system they need. Martin Tugwell, chief executive of Transport for the North, said: “I know political leaders and partners from across the North will join me in thanking Lord McLoughlin for his service to the board. His insight and experience, including as a former Transport Secretary, has helped guide our board and the TfN team over the last few years in working together to secure investment in the North’s transport system.” Arrangements for Lord McLoughlin’s successor are yet to be announced.
GTR names new people director
Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has announced Ruth Busby OBE as its new people director. Ruth will join GTR in November and brings to the role a powerful combination of deep sector expertise, strategic insight into rail, and a genuine passion for building an inclusive and purpose-driven organisational culture.
Ruth’s deep understanding of railway challenges and opportunities positions her well to lead GTR’s People strategy in line with the evolving demands of the sector – from talent attraction and retention, to creating collaborative and inclusive workplaces.
Over the course of her career Ruth has demonstrated outstanding leadership across both public service and transport sectors. She has worked in rail since 2018, first as HR director at Great Western Railway (GWR) and, from January 2023, as people & transformation director for GWR and Network Rail.
In recognition of her contributions to diversity and inclusion in the rail industry, Ruth was awarded an OBE in the 2023 New Year Honours list.
New CEO at Arriva Group
Arriva Group has announced the appointment of Gianfranco Sgro as its new chief executive officer (CEO).
Gianfranco joins Arriva after almost 11 years at Kuehne+Nagel, the global logistics company, where he is currently executive vice president for contract logistics. He is also a member of the management board.
Prior to this, he was chief operating officer for Latin America at Pirelli for three years and had a long and varied leadership career at Ceva Logistics where he ended his time there as chief operating officer for South
Europe, Middle East and Africa.
David Martin, executive chair at Arriva Group, said: “I’m delighted that Gianfranco is joining Arriva at such an important time for our group. His wealth of experience running complex, high value operational businesses through periods of growth, innovation, and change means he’s ideally positioned to lead this company.
“He has an exceptional track record in growing and developing successful businesses and I’m confident that under his leadership we will strengthen our ambition to be the leading passenger transport partner across Europe”.
Gianfranco commented: “It’s an incredibly important time for the public transportation sector, which plays a huge role in some of the big societal issues like decarbonisation and urbanisation that face the world today. I’m excited by the tremendous opportunity ahead of us and I’m looking forward to working with talented teams across the UK and Europe to deliver against the group’s ambitions”.
TPE welcomes new finance director
TransPennine Express (TPE) has announced the addition of Fiona Roberts as its new finance director.
Fiona brings a wealth of experience to the role, having led major finance transformation programmes in fastmoving and complex organisations.
She also has direct industry experience, having spent six years at Network Rail, with three years as a financial controller, where she gained valuable insight into the operational and financial challenges of the rail sector.
Most recently, Fiona successfully delivered a multi-year project at TalkTalk Group, improving processes, upgrading systems, and strengthening financial reporting, facilitating the company to progress through a period of significant change.
Speaking about her new role, Fiona said: “I’m really looking forward to working with the team at TPE, who are forwardthinking and ambitious, and where
customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything they do."
Reflecting on the wider rail industry, she added: “At this point in time, what excites me the most is the chance to work with TPE and industry leaders to shape the future of the railway and Great British Railways (GBR), while continuing to improve services for customers.
"It’s an exciting time to be part of the business and contribute to its growth.”
Systra UK & Ireland has appointed Jonathan Scott as managing directorengineering.
A chartered engineer with more than 30 years’ experience, Jonathan is a recognised figure in the transportation sector. Since joining Systra in 2022 as operations director for highspeed Rail, he has played a pivotal role in expanding the business into markets including energy, and water, and has overseen Systra’s work on HS2 in the West Midlands and at Old Oak Common.
Jonathan has led major infrastructure projects, from both a client and contractor perspective, across the UK and internationally, including California High-Speed Rail and
rail systems in the US, Canada, and Taiwan. He is a fellow of the Institute of Engineering Technology (IET) and of rail infrastructure institution The PWI.
Jonathan also lectures on degree courses at Glasgow Caledonian University for the Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO).
In leading the engineering business, Jonathan will work closely with the wider senior leadership team, market directors and colleagues across Systra. His commitment to technical excellence, coupled with an unwavering dedication to health, safety, security, and wellness for all projects and people, will continue to shape Jonathan’s approach in his new role.
“I am thrilled to step into this role at such an exciting time for Systra," said Jonathan.
“With the breadth of expertise within our UK and Ireland teams, we are uniquely placed to deliver smarter, sustainable and more innovative solutions to the complex transport and infrastructure challenges our clients face.”
Chris Conway to leave Translink Group
Chris Conway, who joined Translink as group chief executive in September 2015, has announced his decision to leave the role next Spring 2026.
Translink is the public transport operator for Northern Ireland, delivering around 13 thousand services each day and managing over £5 billion of public transport assets.
During his tenure, the company saw record passenger growth with enhancements to service delivery and many high-profile investments successfully completed, including the Belfast Glider, zero emission buses, new trains, contactless ticketing, and station investments with the North-West Transport Hub, York Street Station and most recently Belfast Grand Central Station.
He has been a strong advocate for sustainable transport, and its benefits to the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of Northern Ireland, launching the Translink Better Connected strategy in 2022.
Chris said, “It has been a privilege to serve the public in this role and to work with an exceptional team of hardworking and dedicated people, who make such a positive impact to life in Northern Ireland.”
Frank Allen, Chair of Translink said, “I would like to pay tribute to Chris and extend my sincere thanks for his outstanding leadership. Over the past decade, his vision and values have not only reshaped public transport in Northern Ireland but have also propelled it forward with purpose and ambition.
“Under his stewardship, Translink has undergone a remarkable transformation. His enduring legacy will be defined by innovation, sustainability, and civic impact - a solid foundation for future growth.”
The recruitment process for a new CEO will begin in the coming weeks.
Victa Railfreight appoints new managing director
Victa Railfreight has announced the appointment of Debbie Simmons as its new managing director, taking over from company founder Neil Sime, who will move into the role of executive chairman.
Debbie has been part of Victa for 13 years, including 10 years full-time, and most recently served as contracts and resources manager. With extensive experience in business and people management, she has been a valued member of the senior management team for the past decade, bringing deep insight and expertise to Victa’s operations.
Speaking on her appointment, Debbie said: “I am delighted to step into the role of managing director at such an important milestone in Victa’s history. Over the years I have seen first-hand the company’s dedication to innovation, safety, and customer service. I look forward to building on Neil’s legacy and leading our talented team as we continue to deliver specialist rail freight solutions for the future.”
Neil Sime, who founded Victa Railfreight in 1995 and has a distinguished 45-year career in the rail freight industry, will remain closely involved in the
business. As Executive Chairman he will continue to support the management team, lead on Solutions Design as a consultant to the freight sector and remain actively involved in various industry forums and committees, including his longstanding membership of the Rail Freight Group board.
Neil said: “It has been a privilege to lead Victa for the past three decades, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together. Debbie has been an integral part of our journey and is the ideal person to take the company forward. We are confident she will
lead the company into its next chapter with strength and vision and I look forward to working alongside her as we continue to innovate and grow.”
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