RailStaff - Issue 300 | November - December 2025

NOV-DEC 2025 | ISSUE 300

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2025 | ISSUE 300

22 16

20 GREAT BRITISH RAILWAYS ARE COMING | 16

Colin Wheeler examines industry change, AI’s growing role, and the latest safety challenges.

RAILWAY MISSION HIGHLIGHTS RAIL'S MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS | 20

A new initiative launched at Parliament aims to improve workforce wellbeing and effectively tackle mental health challenges.

RAILSTAFF AWARDS 2025: HONOURING RAIL'S EVERYDAY HEROES | 22

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54 50

Industry employees took centre stage as this year's RailStaff Awards celebrated excellence, dedication, and selfless commitment.

DRIVING SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION IN SECURITY AND FACILITIES | 48

Carlisle Support Services’ Innovation Lab unites industry leaders to explore technology, sustainability, and future-focused strategies.

ALSTOM'S GREATEST GATHERING LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY | 50

This landmark event celebrating rail heritage and future ambition raised £100,000 and delivers long-term delivers benefits.

YOUNG RAIL PROFESSIONALS: INNOVATION ALL AROUND | 54

YRP’s Richard Harmer explores how emerging technologies are transforming projects, signalling, and everyday working life.

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Staff

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

© iStockPhoto.com/oversnap

Matt Atkins

Production and design:

Adam O’Connor

Track safety:

Colin Wheeler

Advertising:

Craig Smith

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PROGRESS, PEOPLE AND PRIDE IN RAIL

Contact us: Editor:

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Contact email addresses News: news@rail-media.com Track safety: colin@rail-media.com Pictures: pictures@rail-media.com Adverts: adverts@rail-media.com Subscriptions: manda@rail-media.com Contact details RailStaff Publications,

Where does the time go? It scarcely feels as though 2025 has found its feet, yet 2026 is already coming into view. As ever, the past year has been something of a rollercoaster for the rail industry: moments of progress and celebration tempered by reflection, challenge, and the ever-present need to care for the people who keep the railway moving.

Rail Media House, Samson Road, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3FP. Tel: 01530 816 444 Fax: 01530 810 344 Web: www.railstaff.co.uk Email: hello@rail-media.com Printed by PCP Ltd. RailStaff is published by RailStaff Publications Limited A Rail Media Publication

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As the festive season approaches and the final days of the year tick away, our thoughts naturally turn to those around us – family and friends, colleagues and communities, and the familiar faces we encounter in our working lives. That sense of connection runs as a strong thread through this issue, which reflects an industry both on the cusp of significant change and deeply conscious of its responsibilities.

One of the biggest shifts ahead is the launch of Great British Railways (GBR). Colin Wheeler examines what this new era could mean, from the Office of Rail and Road’s evolving role to the symbolism and substance of Derby as GBR’s headquarters. The unification of operations and infrastructure promises improvements in reliability, punctuality, and capacity for passengers and freight alike. But Colin also reminds us that while emerging technologies such as AI and advanced signalling will reshape roles and processes, human expertise and engineering judgement remain indispensable.

Recent RAIB investigations into near misses, fatalities, and derailments also underline the reality that safety can never be taken for granted.

The focus on people is echoed powerfully in David Shirres’ report on a House of Commons reception celebrating the Railway Mission. Established in 1881, the Mission continues to provide vital pastoral and practical support to around 10,000 rail workers each year. The launch of its new P Coaching mental health initiative comes against a backdrop of concerning statistics

around anxiety, stress, and PTSD within the industry. The message from the event was clear: compassion, collaboration, and proactive intervention are not optional extras, but essential elements in safeguarding the wellbeing of the railway's workforce.

Kicking off our focus on Progress and Innovation, Carlisle Support Services’ Innovation Lab 2026 offers a glimpse of the future. Returning to Liverpool in March 2026, the conference will bring together hundreds of leaders and innovators to explore sustainability, technology, and new ways of working. It’s a timely reminder that progress must be smart, inclusive, and environmentally responsible.

We also report on how Alstom’s Railway 200 celebration, The Greatest Gathering, showed how the industry can honour its past while inspiring its future. By opening Derby’s historic Litchurch Lane Works to the public and raising more than £100,000 for charities and heritage causes, the event captured the pride, generosity, and passion that define the railway family.

Finally, recognition and appreciation were front and centre at the RailStaff Awards 2025, where Britain’s railway heroes took the spotlight at Birmingham’s NEC. With more than 1,000 guests and 855 nominations, the event celebrated the dedication and professionalism found at every level of the industry, from apprentices to senior leaders. Hosted by Michael Portillo, the evening combined heartfelt recognition with festive flair, reminding us that behind every timetable, project, and service are people whose commitment keeps the network running.

Congratulations to all of our nominees, finalists, and winners, and a huge thank you to all of those who stepped forward to support the event.

We’ll see you all in 2026!

Matt@rail-media.com

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RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

Handmade hat

“In 2010, I was struggling with family issues so I wanted to do something which would help me cope and that’s when I came up with the idea to make a Christmas hat. Christmas can be a difficult time for people because relationships can break down, or we can lose loved ones; I wanted to help relieve some of that pressure and spread some festive cheer to our passengers.

“The first hat I created was black and had lights, tinsel, and ‘bah humbug’ written on it.

Lots of people loved it and would burst out laughing when they saw it, so this inspired me to make a different hat every year.”

Matthew, who is based at Barnham depot, said this year he teamed up with a local business to help bring his design to life. His black top hat is covered in orange tinsel, blue baubles, and miniature train tracks, in a nod to steampunk fashion, and had to pass safety checks before he could wear it with pride.

Matthew will be showing off his quirky creation to customers until the end of December.

“Each year, my new hat must be vetted by my depot operational manager and other managers within the Barnham area to make sure it’s compliant with Southern’s health and safety regulations. The checks measure the wearability of the hat so I can do my job to the highest standards, which is why I started designing it in September so it would be ready in time.

“To make sure this was my best hat yet, I collaborated with an independent milliner, Isabella Josie, who is based in Arundel. As she’s married to another railway employee, she understands the rules and regulations we must follow, which made the process seamless. This hat turned out so brilliantly that we’ve already

© Southern

The festive season is known for its traditions and Southern driver, Matthew Staniforth’s, favourite pastime is spreading joy to customers by wearing his handmade Christmas hat. Matthew, 55, creates a new top hat every year to surprise and delight passengers and has been doing so for 15 years. He’s sharing his story as he prepares to help thousands of customers travel by train this winter.

spreads Christmas cheer stated planning the next one!”

Matt, who lives in Littlehampton, is reminding passengers how to travel safely over the festive period.

“More people will be travelling by train to enjoy Christmas, so there are a few things customers can do to stay safe as winter approaches. We’re asking passengers to give themselves a few more minutes when catching the train and please remember to wrap up warm.

“We want everyone to get home safely so we’re urging customers to take extra care if they’ve been drinking, because we do see an increase in slips, trips and falls during this time of year. If you need assistance or are worried about something, please approach a member of staff and they’ll be happy to help.”

An historic part of Manchester Piccadilly station’s heritage has been returned home – thanks to the hard work of a retired train driver.

The Manchester & Birmingham Railway plaque – a high-quality replica of the 1839 original – was installed at the newly built Manchester Piccadilly station in the mid-1960s.

The three-ton plaque was removed in 1998 when an upgrade began on the station but

it never reappeared when the work ended in 2002.

It wasn't until 2019 that retired train driver Mel Thorley, 77, discovered the missing historical artifact for sale on eBay for £3,700.

Mel, from Stockport, and his friend, retired British Transport Police (BTP) officer Dave Smith put out a call which reached the ears of Lord Peter Hendy, then-chairman of Network Rail and current rail minister.

The plaque was then retrieved

by BTP officers.

© Network rail

Railway artefact returns

© Network rail

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Now, more than 25 years after its disappearance, the plaque has finally been returned to its home in Manchester Piccadilly station after a restoration project which has brought it back to its best.

The project saw Network Rail supported by a £27,000 grant supplied by the Railway Heritage Trust, which focuses on the preservation and restoration of key parts of railway history across the country.

Passengers will now be able to spot the plaque standing proudly on platform 10.

Phil James, Network Rail’s route director for the North West, said:

“This is an incredible story that has been possible because of the hard work of our colleagues and Mel. “It’s great to see the plaque returned to its rightful place and it shows how important the history of our stations is. Manchester Piccadilly is a vital transport hub for our passengers, and now they will see the plaque daily.” Mel Thorley, who discovered the plaque on eBay, said: “I am so proud to see the plaque returned to where it should be inside the station. I couldn’t believe it when I spotted it for sale online but it’s great to see it back where it belongs.”

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

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Milestone met at HS2 green tunnel

©HS2

Amey unveils next-gen signalling

Construction of HS2’s longest green tunnel took a major step in early December with the realignment of a key local road, freeing up space for the next phase of excavations.

Set to stretch for 2.7km, the tunnel is being built inside a shallow cutting near Greatworth, West Northamptonshire, using a ‘cut-and-cover’ technique, with the earth put back on top afterwards. This helps to blend the railway into the landscape.

Engineers working for the high-speed rail project have already assembled the first kilometre of the structure and the temporary realignment of the B4525 will allow work to begin on the next stage of the tunnel.

Assembled from precast concrete segments, the tunnel is in an ‘M’ shape, with separate halves for northbound and southbound trains.

Inspired by similar structures on the French high-speed network, the approach promised to be quick to assemble, with much of the work done offsite.

The nearby Chipping Warden green tunnel uses a similar design and the teams at the two tunnels have been able to learn lessons from each other.

Work began first at Chipping Warden where it quickly became clear that the initial construction schedule was overly optimistic with the team facing significant productivity challenges. ©HS2

Recognising the need to improve productivity, HS2 Ltd worked closely with their main works contractor EKFB – a group made up of Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction, and Bam Nuttall – to identify and put in place a series of improvements to the construction process.

As a result, the teams at both tunnels are now installing around five to six segments per day – more than double the rate at Chipping Warden during the start of work in 2022/23.

HS2 Ltd’s project manager, Sam Arrowsmith, said: “I’m really pleased to see the temporary realignment of the B4525 open to drivers. This major milestone means that we can keep local traffic moving while we deliver the next stage of the Greatworth green tunnel.

“Once complete, the tunnel will help protect the rural landscape and reduce disruption for people living nearby. We’ve still got a long way to go, but the lessons from Chipping Warden have helped us significantly increase productivity and I’d like to thank everyone who’s worked so hard to get us to this point.”

The construction of the tunnel is happening in stages, with the cutting first being excavated and then a layer of ‘blinding’ laid to form a concrete base for the structure. To speed up the blinding process, the steel reinforcing bars are now being delivered as a ‘roll mat’ with the parallel bars connected by mild steel tape so they can be quickly rolled out ready for the concrete pour.

The next stage involves the assembly of the five concrete segments that form each of the ‘M’ shaped sections of tunnel. Continual improvements have been made to the delivery and installation process to improve the speed and accuracy of the assembly and cut unnecessary waiting time.

Once the structure has been assembled, a concrete ‘invert’ slab is poured to form the base for the track. This process has been sped up by changing the direction from which concrete is delivered and by introducing prefabricated reinforcing cages which has doubled the speed of the work.

Amey has officially launched its Tessera system, a new digital signalling system designed to upgrade and future-proof rail infrastructure across the UK and globally.

Built with modular, future ready architecture, Tessera integrates seamlessly across legacy, modern, and next generation signalling platforms. It connects cleanly into existing systems to minimise disruption, while durable hardware and robust software deliver reliable performance with minimal maintenance. The programmable logic controller (PLC) can be tailored to meet exact operational requirements, and Amey’s end-to-end partnership approach ensures clients benefit from full lifecycle support, from planning and delivery through to aftercare.

Peter Anderson, managing director of transport infrastructure at Amey, said: “At Amey, we are committed to driving innovation and excellence in rail infrastructure. The launch of Tessera marks a significant milestone in our journey to deliver safer, smarter, and more sustainable rail networks.

“Tessera’s advanced digital signalling capabilities empower our clients to modernise with confidence, ensuring reliability and efficiency for years to come.

We are proud to lead the way in shaping the future of rail transportation.”

Already proven through deployments at Magdalen Road Level Crossing and Transport for Wales’ Walnut Tree Depot, and with product acceptance from Network Rail, Tessera is poised to expand into new markets and support long term investment in signalling and communications upgrades.

With a 25-year operational life and full backward compatibility, it delivers lasting value and significant whole life cost savings by reducing competency management, spare parts, fault rates, and train disruption compared to traditional signalling solutions.

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RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

© GWR

Alstom invests in Crewe Works Alstom is celebrating after opening a new train component overhaul and repair facility inside its Crewe Works.

GWR schieves

'autism-friendly' status Great Western Railway is the first train operator to achieve a national award in recognition of its work to provide an autism-friendly environment and inclusive customer service for autistic people.

The company has gained the National Autistic Society’s Autism Friendly Award, which supports businesses to be more inclusive for autistic people by providing accessible customer services, information, and environments.

After initially being recognised for autismawareness initiatives between Plymouth and Penzance, GWR has now received the Autism Friendly Award for the whole of its network.

The train operator has created several autism-friendly products designed to help autistic people travel by train. This includes: a soundbite series that allows autistic people to understand the sounds they may experience when travelling by train; virtual video tours of stations to better allow people to navigate the station prior to arrival; sensory packs that provide coping tools to make travel more comfortable; and providing ear defenders to support passengers who experience overstimulation or sensory overload.

The operator is also expanding its 'Try a Train' programme, which supports individuals and groups in developing their travelling confidence.

GWR Accessibility Mentor Coral Thomas said: “We are proud to be the first train operator to achieve national autism accreditation across our entire network, building on the success of our 2023 accreditation between Plymouth and Penzance.

“This milestone reflects a sustained commitment to making rail travel more accessible and supportive for all. While I’ve been closely involved in leading these initiatives from the very beginning, it has only been possible through the collaboration of colleagues across many departments who share the same passion for improving the experience of every customer, irrespective of their needs.

“We look forward to continuing to look for innovative approaches and solutions for accessibility and welcome suggestions from the travelling public.”

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Alongside a state-of-the-art area for refurbishing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units, Alstom has also developed a suite of new offices as part of a multi-million pound investment for the future of the Cheshire town's historic site.

As part of a full overhaul and repair, operatives change out refrigerant, and worn parts are replaced to restore systems to optimal performance and extend their lifespan.

Additionally, Crewe’s bespoke test cells enable climatic chamber examinations, as they replicate various onboard conditions the systems experience in passenger service.

Prior to the new facility opening, Crewe Works was able to process around 16 HVAC units per week. This has now doubled to 35 and will reach around 50 by January when the HVAC Area is expanded further to help meet demand. Seventy new skilled roles have already been created to operate the facility, which will rise to around 110 in the New Year.

Operatives are currently overhauling HVAC units on Class 334, Class 375, Class 377, Class 387, and Class 390 trains, with work on Class 222 and Class 378 trains following in 2026.

“As the UK’s leading supplier of train services, we’re proud to have invested more than £2 million in new technology and offices at Crewe Works. This expansion not only futureproofs our operations but also enables us to better serve customers across the country with enhanced capacity and capability,” said Steve Harvey, services director UK and Ireland at Alstom.

Originally opened by the Grand Junction Railway in 1843 to manufacture steam © Richard Gennis

© Richard Gennis

locomotives, Crewe Works was instrumental in the development of the town, with its population growing from 500 in 1841 to more than 40,000 by 1900.

Along with the new HVAC Area, Crewe Works is today home to Alstom’s UK Centre of Excellence for Bogie, Wheel and Traction Motor Overhaul, overhauling over 20,000 bogies during the past 10 years for the UK rail market.

Looking ahead, the bogies – which house a train’s wheel sets – for the High Speed Two (HS2) rolling stock will be made by Alstom at its Crewe facility. This marks the first time in almost two decades that these have been manufactured in the UK. Alstom has partnered with Woodhouse to deliver a transformative refurbishment of its General Office space within the Crewe Works site. Woodhouse developed a progressive design for the 20,000 sq ft space that has enabled the office area to adapt and support Alstom’s growth plans for the site.

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

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© HS2

HS2 bridge slide cuts traffic delays

Engineers working for the HS2 project claimed a UK-first in mid-December when they successfully slid an enormous 4,600-tonne viaduct across the M6 without closing the motorway – significantly reducing disruption to drivers.

The 17 hour-long operation was the culmination of an epic three-stage process to assemble and install the 315-metre East deck of the M6 South viaduct, which will carry highspeed trains heading to Birmingham and further north.

While the previous slide had required a weekend closure of the main carriageway, the team – led by HS2’s main work contractor Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) – worked closely with National Highways to develop the ‘fully restrained’ process which allowed them to safely slide the final section above the moving traffic.

It is thought to be the first time this technique has been used on a UK motorway.

To deliver this, they initially closed the M6 overnight between Junctions 4 and 5 on Thursday 11 December to shift the viaduct slightly forward by 12metres. This was to ensure that both ends of the enormous beam were fully supported on concrete piers during this weekend’s slide.

The viaduct was then pushed the rest of the way across the busy motorway on Saturday at a speed of 13 metres per hour, with only the M42 slip closed during the weekend.

The successful operation means the project to construct the M6 South viaduct has reached the halfway point. Over the next year, the same process will be repeated, with a parallel West deck slid into position alongside the first one to

carry trains heading south.

Caroline Warrington, HS2 Ltd’s head of delivery, said: “Along the HS2 route we are pioneering new approaches to engineering and construction in order to deliver more efficiently and with less impact on our neighbours.

“We believe this fully restrained slide was a first for the country, but most importantly it means we’ve been able to cut in half the number of times we’ve had to close the motorway. I’d like to thank everyone who worked so hard to make the operation a success.”

The M6 South viaduct has been designed in stages to increase efficiency and reduce disruption for motorists. Each section is assembled to one side before being pushed out over the motorway, with the next section added behind it.

In the latest phase, the team moved the viaduct using a series of winches, known as strand jacks. To reduce friction, the structure was slid across non-stick pads, using a material usually found on the surface of a household frying pan.

Russell Luckhurst, the BBV engineer leading the delivery of the works, said: “We’re all feeling a huge sense of pride after sliding a 4,600-tonne viaduct into its final position this weekend. The third and final slide of the East deck viaduct was delivered over a live motorway for the first time in the UK, making this achievement even more special.

“Using this ‘fully restrained’ technique meant we were able to keep disruption to an absolute minimum. Our focus will now turn towards the neighbouring West deck viaduct, which will be launched in multiple phases throughout 2026, as well as the East deck finishing works.”

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RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

NEWS IN BRIEF BEYOND THE TRACKS

PREFFERED OPERATOR

Transport for London (TfL) has announced its intention to award the new London Overground operator contract to First Rail London Limited (FRLL), a subsidiary of FirstGroup PLC. FRLL will take over from the current operator, Arriva Rail London, on Sunday 3 May 2026 and work closely with TfL over the eight-year contract to deliver further enhancements for customers on this hugely popular network. Under the new concession, FRLL will introduce a range of service and operational improvements designed to enhance customer experience and support staff.

NEW VOICES

TRAINING COMPLETE

Driver training on the new Tyne and Wear Metro fleet has been successfully completed - marking another major milestone for the £362 million project.

More than 200 members of Metro train crew, including drivers and operations managers, have undertaken the intensive training programme. Metro operator Nexus confirmed on Tuesday 16 December that the final group of drivers had passed the conversion course. It means that the main cohort of Metro drivers are now signed off as fully competent on the new trains.

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Siemens Goole Rail Village Siemens Mobility's apprenticeship programme has welcomed 25 new individuals across the UK and Ireland.

This latest intake contributes to the 175 apprentices currently on programme, building on the 150 who are already enrolled on different apprenticeship programmes.

This commitment to developing talent is well-demonstrated at its Goole Rail Village, where 35 of these individuals are situated, and apprentices are actively engaged in assembling Piccadilly line trains for Transport for London, thereby directly supporting Siemens Mobility’s investment in UK rail industry skills.

Mark Speed, general manager at Siemens Mobility’s Goole Rail Village, said: “We’re committed to creating a powerful pipeline of talent and a lasting legacy of skills for our business and the wider industry. That’s why we have brought on board apprentices from the early days of the Goole project and continue to do so. This latest intake at Goole further contributes to our ongoing investment in developing young talent to help shape the future of the UK rail industry.

“Apprentices in our earlier cohorts are already making a significant impact in their

teams, here at Goole and elsewhere in the business, and it’s fantastic to see their development and progress since joining us.

We’re excited to support our newest recruits as they begin their journey, and we can’t wait to see what they all go on to achieve.”

Eighty percent of these trains will be assembled in Goole, where Siemens also intends to assemble future battery bi-mode train orders for the UK. Goole Rail Village represents a significant investment of up to £240 million, creating up to 1,000 new jobs in the East Riding of Yorkshire, along with around 1,700 supply chain job opportunities.

Apprentices will gain invaluable experience in diverse roles such as Mechanical Fitter, Engineering Fitter, Maintenance Support, Manufacturing Technician, and Warehouse Management, all while combining practical experience with theoretical knowledge from York College.

Siemens Mobility took on board the first cohort of apprentices in Goole in 2020, during the early stages of the Rail Village development. The majority of the first intake of 12 apprentices have progressed onto permanent roles within the business and are forging exciting careers with Siemens Mobility, at Goole and other locations. © Siemens Mobility

ScotRail customers are now being greeted by a familiar Scottish voice when travelling, after the train operator introduced a new voice for on-train announcements on some of its trains.

Automated messages have been created from recordings of Paisleybased ScotRail employee, Vannessa Sloan. Vannessa, who works in ScotRail’s customer information team, was chosen following an internal search which saw eight colleagues from the team record sample announcements.

Apprentices boost

© Siemens Mobility

A collaborative project between the National Railway Museum and Google Arts & Culture called 'Beyond the Tracks' has been launched with the aim of bringing the transformative story of the railways to a global digital audience.

The work embraces the digital revolution the railways helped inspire, ensuring this powerful history belongs to and is accessible to everyone, everywhere. The National Railway Museum is one of the first partners to use the new AI-powered Metadata Enhancement Service from Google Arts & Culture. The service’s Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities helped transcribe text from handwritten documents and historic artifacts, making the collection more searchable.

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

Balfour Beatty

embraces hydrogen cleantech Balfour Beatty has successfully completed an ‘engine carbon clean’ (ECC) trial on a Plasser and Theuer compact tamper, demonstrating the effectiveness of the technology in reducing carbon emissions and improving engine performance.

ECC is an innovative and patented on-demand hydrogen generator technology that cleans combustion engines internally by removing carbon build up. Hydrogen is piped into the air intake and the engine sucks in on demand what it needs – significantly improving fuel efficiency and reducing toxic emissions, including CO₂, CO, NOx, and N₂O. Balfour Beatty is the first infrastructure company to apply this solution to rail-mounted plant as part of efforts to address Scope 1 emissions. The

trial simulated a full year of usage aligning with typical maintenance cycles and saw a 15.79% reduction in emissions. Following the successful trial, the company is now aiming to roll out the ECC service across its entire tamper fleet.

The removal of the carbon build up inside the engine allows it to breathe – this in turn allows for better combustion, which means revolutions per minute (RPM) can

Depot investment improves staff facilities TransPennine Express (TPE) has unveiled new facilities at its Liverpool depot following a £580,000 investment.

The move sees the train operator more than double its workspace and provide improved facilities for up to 150 staff.

The new space includes meeting rooms, a dedicated occupational health room, a traincrew gym, 16 hot desks, and a driver training room featuring ‘drawable walls’ to support interactive learning.

The project was delivered with locally based contractors including Consortia, Vextrix, and AHR Architects. Working with local suppliers to ensure the investment directly benefits businesses © TPE

across Liverpool and the wider city region.

As part of the upgrade, TPE will also share the space with Hitachi – its train provider for links to Yorkshire and the North East – further strengthening operational links between the two organisations.

Chris Nutton, major projects & TRU director at TPE, said: “Liverpool is a key hub in our network, and this investment ensures our colleagues here have the space, tools, and environment they need to deliver the best service for our customers.

“The new depot is designed with employee satisfaction front and centre – it’s a place where our teams can collaborate, train, and thrive for years to come.”

The Liverpool depot opening forms part of TPE’s wider programme of investment in staff facilities, following new depot openings in Glasgow and Newcastle earlier this year.

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return back to manufacturer’s recommended levels and optimal efficiency.

Hydrogen is a non-corrosive gas, plus no chemicals or harmful additives are used, there is no storage of compressed hydrogen involved, hydrogen isn’t forced or injected into the engine, plus there is no super heating of the engine to burn off the carbon.

As a modular system, it cleans any internal combustion engine - from a small generator to family car, LGVs & HGVs, a commercial boiler, heavy plant equipment, a locomotive or even a ship’s engine - just by increasing the number of electrolysers. As all combustible fuels create carbon, it works on any engine - diesel and petrol, HVO, CNG, LNG and other biofuels.

ECC tracks CO₂ levels with an ISO calibrated emissions tester and records from baseline and at post-fourth clean, which also indicates the vehicles fuel reduction at idle. Because CO₂ and fuel efficiency are linked, a measurable reduction in emissions and a decrease in fuel consumption will always follow.

01483 763 558 www

www.woking-homes.co.uk administration@woking-homes.co.uk Registered charity no. 1120447

“I’ve never found a more perfect example of how older people should be cared for than Woking Homes.”

Former Chairman, Age UK, Waverley

Woking Homes is a railway charity providing residential and respite care primarily for former railway employees and their close family.

Our team provide outstanding care at affordable rates in a friendly, caring and homely environment.

To find out more about permanent or respite stays, visit our website or get in touch.

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RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

Southeastern is the first train operator to partner up with London-based Solace Women’s Aid, marking the start of a trial to deliver muchneeded unclaimed items directly to women’s refuges across Great Britain.

Train operators already support the communities they serve, with unclaimed lost property from trains and stations often donated to a variety of charities. This new scheme builds on that effort by offering a more focused way to help people fleeing domestic abuse. It also provides a more sustainable way to donate, ensuring that contributions directly match the specific needs of refugees rather than simply sending items that may not be needed at the time.

Under the new scheme, refuges will submit lists of needed items, such as clothing or toys, and train companies will supply what they can from their unclaimed lost property departments.

Deliveries will be made in partnership with InPost Lockers, allowing items to reach refuges quickly and securely while keeping locations completely confidential. This approach also reduces time and cost pressures on frontline staff.

Industry trial aids women in refuges

The first delivery under the scheme was made on Wednesday 5 November, and included a donation of two jumpers, five cuddly toys, and a collection of coats which were much-needed at this time of the year.

Jacqueline Starr, executive chair and CEO of Rail Delivery Group, said: “The railway has a long history of helping people in times of need and this initiative is another way we can make a real difference. By working together with refuges and partners like InPost, we’re ensuring that items which might otherwise go unused reach those who need them most, safely and quickly. We are committed to supporting the most vulnerable people within the communities we serve.”

Aaron Cox, station manager at Southeastern, commented: “When we were first approached about this scheme, we were very keen to get involved and provide further help beyond the normal support of the Rail to Refuge scheme.

SWR achieves double gold South Western Railway (SWR) has been awarded the prestigious Investors in People (IIP) Gold Accreditation in both the People and Wellbeing categories, recognising its outstanding commitment in its people, culture, and leadership.

Investors in People provides internationally recognised standards in people management and employee wellbeing. The double Gold accreditation marks a significant milestone for SWR, recognising its continued focus on nurturing talent, celebrating contributions, and empowering colleagues through a wide range of skills and development opportunities.

The latest accreditation recognises the significant progress made since SWR secured Silver status in 2021. Over three years, SWR has embedded a clear set of values and behaviours that have helped foster a positive culture and strong sense of shared purpose among its 5,500 colleagues.

This was supported by programmes that further strengthen its investment in colleague support and development such as Leading Our RAILSTAFF.CO.UK | @RAIL_STAFF | FACEBOOK.COM/RAILSTAFF

Journey to Better and SWR’s Anti-Abuse and All Aboard campaigns to end discrimination and abuse on the railway.

Sharon Johnston, South Western Railway’s people and transformation director, said: “Over the past three years we’ve invested heavily in our people, our culture and our leaders – and this recognition shows that our colleagues feel the difference.

“Achieving double Gold accreditation from Investors in People is a fantastic achievement and a clear reflection of how far we’ve come as an organisation.

“I’d like to thank all our colleagues for their hard work and dedication. Their commitment to our values and to each other is what makes SWR a great place to work, and it will be vital as we move into the next chapter of the railway”.

SWR also expects to receive the results of its assessment in the Apprentices category in the New Year, when it hopes to achieve a further Gold accreditation.

SWR’s apprenticeship scheme develops talent through specific training, providing young people with the skills and experience they

“We regularly donate lots of unclaimed items to local and national charities, and this initiative builds on our commitment to support those in need. I'm confident that this trial will prove successful and can then be extended across other rail operators to help supply muchneeded items to women's refuges across the country."

This trial is the latest in demonstrating the industry’s commitment to helping those who are facing domestic violence. The existing Rail to Refuge scheme, run in partnership with Women’s Aid, enables people escaping domestic abuse to travel to safety for free.

Since its launch in April 2020, train operators have provided free tickets to 13,054 survivors.

Nearly two-thirds (65%) of those who used Rail to Refuge said they could not have made the journey if their fare had not been covered. The average journey funded through the scheme costs £73.

© SWR

need to thrive across the railway industry.

In 2022, the scheme was expanded and SWR became the only train operator to welcome applicants between the ages of 16 and 18, through its Young Talent Apprenticeship programme.

© Rail Delivery Group

The rail industry is joining forces to provide essential items such as winter coats, jumpers, and children’s toys to women’s refuges nationwide, in a new initiative that builds on its commitment to support survivors of domestic abuse and the government's wider aim to halve incidents of Violence Against Women and Girls within the decade.

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

NEWS

13

Driver celebrates

50 years of service In December, c2c Railway honoured Driver Alan Mann for his 50 years of service on the railway.

© c2c

At an event at c2c’s Shoeburyness depot, Alan was met by Hannah Watson, c2c head of drivers, and Colin North, c2c driver depot manager, with a selection of cakes and sweet treats to celebrate this amazing milestone. Alan was presented with a decorative pin badge to celebrate his 50 years at c2c along with assorted photos and memorabilia displayed during the event.

Alan started his rail career in November 1975 as a cleaner at the Stratford depot and a year later became a fireman/ driver’s assistant. In 1977, he trained on the steam boilers and in February 1981 became a fully-fledged driver. He moved to the Tilbury Riverside depot in late 1981, before transferring onto electric class 302s. Since 1984, Alan has been based at Shoeburyness and has had a front row seat to the many changes that have come to

© c2c

pass on the railway in that time.

Alan represents the third generation of railway workers in his family, as both his father and grandfather also worked on the railway. His grandfather started around 1916, during the height of WW1 and enjoyed a long career in the railway industry.

Meanwhile, Alan’s father joined in circa 1946 and retired after 47 years of service in 1993.

Rob Mullen, c2c managing director, said: “What can be said about Alan and his incredible achievement? To be a part of the railway for 50 years is utterly astonishing and everyone at c2c (including myself) is in awe of the vast experience he has amassed.

“As 2025 is the year that the UK celebrates Railway 200, stories like Alan’s are a reminder of how amazing the railway really is. The railway has a great legacy of generational workers and Alan’s family is one of the absolute best examples of that. To not just mark 50 years of service but to make a generational impact of over 100 years alongside his father and grandfather shows the

© c2c

dedication and longevity of the railways and how it has been a constant through modern British history.”

Driver Alan Mann, said: “It is amazing to reach 50 years in the railway and I was delighted to bring these pictures of my father and grandfather today. When I look back on it, the time has gone by so quickly and I have been amazed by the changes I have seen over the years.”

© c2c

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14

NEWS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

© iStockPhoto.com

Railways Bill laid in Parliament Legislation that will transform Britain’s railways has been introduced, paving the way for a simpler, more reliable network, which puts passengers before profits.

The Railways Bill, which was laid in Parliament on 5 November, creates Great British Railways (GBR) – the new publicly owned company, which will bring together the management of passenger services and rail infrastructure.

GBR will be accountable to passengers, freight customers, and taxpayers, and will focus on responding to their needs. Headquartered in Derby, GBR will create a simpler, more unified railway that delivers easier journeys and offers better value for money. This will include a new one-stop-shop app where passengers can check train times and book tickets.

The Railways Bill will also establish a strengthened passenger watchdog, which will be a powerful new voice to investigate poor service and advocate for improvements.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: "Britain deserves a railway that is fit for the future – one that rebuilds the trust of its passengers, regenerates its communities and restores reliability and value for money.

"The introduction of this legislation is a major step towards a rail network that supports Britain’s businesses and delivers for the travelling public – paving the way for economic growth and access to opportunity across the country."

The Railways Bill builds on the Government’s public ownership programme, which is driving improved services. Southeastern and LNER are among the top five operators nationally for lowest cancellation rates. South Western Railway has more than tripled the number of new trains in service since entering public ownership, offering more comfortable journeys and passengers can now use tickets across publicly owned operators during cancellations, at no extra cost.

Major changes in the bill include: a strengthened passenger watchdog; fare and ticketing reform; better business planning; localised decision making.

Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, commented: "The introduction of the Railways Bill to Parliament marks a pivotal moment for rail reform across the country. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make trains more reliable and tickets easier to use, with clearer accountability for passengers and greater confidence in every journey."

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A digital signalling first Rail passengers are being thanked for their patience after further work to progress the digital signalling upgrade took place on the East Coast Main Line.

Journeys south of Peterborough were affected over the weekend of 22 and 23 November by testing work on the new digital in-cab signalling system that will be introduced in the coming years through the £1.4 billion East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).

ECDP will replace lineside ‘traffic light’ signals with continuous in-cab signalling information through the European Train Control System (ETCS), enabling more punctual and reliable journeys for passengers in the future.

Ricky Barsby, Network Rail head of access integration, ECDP, said: “More work has been done towards the introduction of modern in-cab digital signalling that will deliver a better railway for passengers. We have made a big step forward with our testing programme with us now doing simultaneous train movements under ETCS control.

The testing saw ECDP achieve a landmark with the first instance of two trains operating with ETCS at the same time on an inter-city main line in this country.

This was achieved involving two Great Northern Class 717 commuter units. The weekend also saw testing involving a Grand Central Class 180 unit, and data updates across different elements of the ETCS system (trackside interlocking and also the Radio Block Centre, improving desk and signaller screens at York Rail Operating Centre).

Work also took place enabling balises (trackside beacons that communicate with the © Network Rail

train) to be ‘unshielded’ (i.e. left switched on), which will enable future testing periods to be more efficient.

Other work taking place over the weekend included track renewal at Letchworth Garden City, rerailing at Welwyn and Wymondley, and drainage improvements at Stevenage.

Matt Kent, Siemens Mobility’s director of operations – rail infrastructure, commented: "For the first time, two GTR trains have operated simultaneously under ETCS control on a UK intercity main line, a landmark moment achieved with our Siemens-built Class 717 units on the East Coast Main Line.

"Working closely with Network Rail and our partners across the ECDP programme, we are proud to be delivering the in-cab digital signalling system that will transform rail travel and transport and enable more punctual, reliable, and efficient journeys for passengers on one of Britain's most critical rail corridors.”

Passenger services are expected to begin using digital signalling through the Welwyn to Hitchin section in 2026.

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

© Network Rail

Network Rail supports

Eryri power line project

The existing overhead lines are a highly visible and intrusive feature in one of the UK’s most celebrated protected landscapes.

National Grid’s flagship Eryri Visual Impact Provision project is addressing this by constructing a 3.4km underground tunnel beneath the estuary between Minffordd and Llandecwyn, allowing the removal of 3km of overhead lines and 10 electricity pylons.

With specialist expertise in railway tunnels, Network Rail’s Asset Protection team is supporting the project by working closely with National Grid and its contractor, Hochtief UK, to provide engineering assurance for works on and near the railway.

This collaboration is helping the project to progress safely and efficiently, protecting vital

rail infrastructure while minimising impacts on the railway, local communities, and the national park environment through careful coordination of access arrangements, construction safety and environmental compliance.

Tunnel construction is underway with Network Rail so far supporting works where the tunnel passes beneath the railway at Minffordd and Penrhyndeudraeth. In March 2026, the

15

Asset Protection team will again work alongside National Grid during further tunnelling activities at Llandecwyn. The pylons and overhead lines are due for removal in 2029.

The section of overhead line, constructed in 1966, is part of the 400kV electricity route connecting the 400kV Pentir substation near Bangor with the former Trawsfynydd Power Station, now a 400kV substation.

Wales and Borders Route Director Nick Millington said: “We’re proud to support the Visual Impact Provision project in Eryri, which aligns with our commitment to sustainability, community engagement and protecting the environment.

“Wales and Borders is more than a railway - and the contribution of our specialist engineering teams to this complex work shows how we work with partners to deliver lasting benefits for our beautiful landscape, while keeping passengers and freight moving safely and reliably.”

The Cambrian Line remains open during the work.

© Network Rail

Working in partnership with National Grid, a new scheme is underway to improve the landscape around the Dwyryd Estuary, in Snowdonia, by re-routing power cables underground.

NEWS

Rail-delivered hydrogen debuts at test track Network Rail, working with rail and energy partners Freightliner and GeoPura, has transported hydrogen for the first time on Britain's rail network, marking a major step forward for both the rail and energy sectors.

© Network Rail

The milestone was achieved on Wednesday 3 December at Network Rail's Test Tracks site in Tuxford, where freight operator Freightliner hauled a train of gas containers from Doncaster to High Marnham – marking Britain's first shipment of hydrogen by rail.

It was part of a rail and energy industry innovation event showcasing several hydrogen initiatives. This included the first re-engineered hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive – seen as a step towards replacing diesel – another milestone towards the rail industry's goal of becoming net zero. The event also demonstrated HPU hydrogenpowered generators, lighting towers and support vehicles.

Currently, hydrogen is transported by road. This breakthrough marks a major step towards the rail network becoming a ready-made hydrogen distribution system, a rolling pipeline, with connections to all major industrial and urban centres across Britain – proving the practical capability of rail to transport hydrogen at scale. Hydrogen will also be utilised to decarbonise wider rail operations, from construction to ongoing maintenance and off-grid operations.

Leevan Finney, Network Rail’s engineering services director, said: "Rail

is the greenest form of long-distance transport, and we, as an industry, are working hard to decarbonise transport and achieve net zero. For 200 years the railway has connected communities and major industry across Britain. Today, the railway has the potential to be a strategic hydrogen distribution network in the future, as it has been for energy for many years.

"By bringing together rail and energy innovators here at Test Tracks in Tuxford, we're accelerating Britain's journey to net zero and showing how rail and energy sectors can work together to deliver sustainable transport and energy distribution.”

The event at the Test Tracks site in Tuxford was held in partnership with organisations across the rail and energy sectors, including Freightliner, HyMarnham Power, GeoPura, Vanguard Sustainable Transport Solutions, Enspired Consulting, Rail Operations Group, Toyota UK and JCB.

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16

TRACK SAFETY

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

REPORT BY COLIN WHEELER

GREAT BRITISH RAILWAYS ARE C O M I NG

O

n 5 November, the proposal to establish Great British Railways (GBR) was formally laid before Parliament. As part of this major reorganisation, the role of the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) will change significantly. The ORR will become responsible for providing independent advice to the Secretary of State, while continuing to exercise its licence enforcement role. At the same time, the Secretary of State will take on a greater role in holding GBR to account.

The ORR’s funding arrangements will also change, providing a broader scope than the current process. This will support an expanded role in advising funders on GBR’s access decisions, setting charges for use of the railway network, and handling a new appeals function.

These developments sit alongside welcome initiatives to increase services using the Channel Tunnel rail link. The responsibilities and accountabilities of the ORR are already growing and look set to continue doing so.

I recall the competitive process that led to the decision to locate the headquarters of GBR in Derby. While details of its organisation, roles and responsibilities for infrastructure, freight, and passenger services remain unspecified, they will undoubtedly become the subject of debate.

The reunification of train operations with railway infrastructure should reduce delays and operational problems, and improve reliability, punctuality, and capacity for both passenger and freight services.

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Colin Wheeler.

AI AND ENGINEERING JUDGEMENT

There are clear improvements and efficiencies to be gained through the careful introduction of artificial intelligence (AI).

However, the expertise and commitment of operators, along with those who maintain and renew railway infrastructure, will remain crucial to the safe operation of future rail traffic and to the exercise of sound engineering judgement.

It has been suggested that future roles will be increasingly focused on data analysis, decision-making, and the complex interventions that automated systems cannot handle. In this context, several key roles have been highlighted. Asset Engineers and Managers will have specific responsibilities for determining when and how major repairs and renewals are undertaken.

I also strongly endorse the continued appointment of Track and Structures Inspectors. While many routine inspections may be automated, human inspectors will be essential in verifying inspection findings and carrying out detailed, tactile surveys. They will also be responsible for managing immediate safety concerns on site, where professional judgement remains irreplaceable.

Engineering technicians will require new skills to operate and maintain advanced robotic and AI systems, enabling a move away from many manual, high-risk tasks.

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18

WASHWOOD HEATH MILLBROOK

RAIB WORKLOAD Hopefully, in time, all of this will reduce the workload of the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB). Meanwhile it is investigating a near miss with a member of ground staff who was carrying out shunting duties on a stationary train on the Washwood Heath Goods Loop on 18 September. The loop is adjacent to the Up Derby Slow line which was open to traffic. The shunter was between the two lines when the train approached. The shunter had to move quickly to the rear of the freight train to reach a position of safety. No one was injured and no damage was done.

© Network Rail

NEAR MISS AT MILLBROOK On 25 September there was a near miss between a passenger train travelling at 108mph and a van. The van had been reversed onto the track at an access point near Millbrook. The plan was for the railway staff to work on the Up and Down Slow lines which were blocked to traffic. However, the work group accessed the Up and Down Fast lines which were open to traffic! When the near miss occurred, the rear of the van was near the Up Fast. The RAIB is investigating and a Safety Digest will be issued.

LIFE CHANGING INJURIES

At around 15:37 on 7 October, at Crossacres on the Manchester Metrolink, an 11-year-old child became trapped between the platform and a departing tram and was dragged along the platform for around 15 to 20 metres. Life changing injuries were the result. The RAIB investigation is underway and will consider “the actions of those involved, management and risks at tram stops, management and risks when running two trams together, management and training of staff, and underlying factors.”

FATALITY ON FOOTPATH CROSSING RAIB has issued its report on the Barneview footpath crossing fatality that took place on 23 January 2025. At about 08:03 near Kenley in the Borough of Croydon, a child was struck and fatally injured by a train travelling at around 50mph. The child was walking to school when they entered the crossing as the train approached. The driver sounded the train’s horn and applied emergency brakes on realising the pedestrian was starting to cross the railway. The report says that “the pedestrian looked up in response to the horn but did not have time to react and move clear.”

The report says that “the accident happened because they did not perceive the risk, probably because they were distracted by their mobile phone”. It also comments that access to information relating to safe use of level crossings for schools and parents is not sufficiently widespread and that “Network Rail’s guidance for risk assessments did not recognise the different risk profile of younger people”.

RAIB has made three recommendations. One is for schools nationwide to work with infrastructure managers to introduce targeted and locally relevant safety lessons for pupils of all ages.

Two further recommendations are addressed to Network Rail working with the Rail Safety and Standards Board. The first is to “make the dangerous areas of level crossings more noticeable, particularly to people whose attention may be distracted.”

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SHAP DERAILMENT

The final recommendation is “to understand the risk profile of younger people and whether this warrants different approaches to risk mitigation at level crossings.”

Additionally, RAIB identified a learning point for consideration of what action could be taken to alert users to the danger of individual level crossings where the provision of its standards cannot be met, and to record these considerations in the risk assessment.

SHAP DERAILMENT At around 06:10 on 3 November, the Glasgow to London Euston passenger train derailed after running into debris from a landslip three miles south of Shap summit. Debris had been washed onto the track which lifted the first bogie off the rails and to the right. The 83mph derailment ran on for some 560 metres. On the train were nine staff and 86 passengers. Four people suffered minor injuries and there was damage to both the railway infrastructure and the train.

There had been “heavy and sustained rainfall” and “a drainage channel running across the slope above was unable to cope with the volume of water that resulted in a landslip.”

RAIB is investigating.

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20

FEATURE

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

RAILWAY MISSION HIGHLIGHTS RAIL'S

MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS D

avid Shirres reports on a House of Commons reception held in in October which celebrated the Railway Mission’s long-standing support for rail staff and marked the launch of a new mental health training initiative.

A reception held at the House of Commons on 27 October for the Railway Mission celebrated the Mission’s work and unveiled a new training initiative to provide mental health support for rail staff. The event, hosted by Lillian Greenwood MP and sponsored by Net Company, underscored the Mission’s essential role in supporting the wellbeing of the railway workforce.

The Railway Mission was established in 1881. It currently has over 20 chaplains who provide support to around 10,000 people in the industry each year. This includes post incident support. Last year, chaplains engaged with 3,300 rail staff involved in 483 incidents of which 278 were rail suicides and 57 were attempted suicides.

PEOPLE AT ITS HEART Liam Johnston, the Railway Mission’s executive director, opened the event by emphasising that the railway is not just about infrastructure as it’s primarily about people. The Mission’s chaplaincy service supports everyone in the industry, he said, from executives to new recruits, offering compassionate care and a listening ear during life’s most difficult moments.

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He then handed over to Lillian Greenwood, the MP for Nottingham South and former chair of the Transport Select Committee who was hosting the event. As a passionate advocate for railways and sustainable transport she was proud to support the vital work of the Railway Mission. The reception was a chance to recognise the dedication of frontline staff who make a real difference every day. She advised that Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy, who also was a strong supporter of the Railway Mission, was to join the reception later.

Claire Keville, business manager for the Mission, then highlighted the mental health challenges facing rail workers. She revealed that in 2021 a rail health survey had shown that: • One in three rail workers had a mental health condition, compared to one in six in the general UK workforce.

• Anxiety levels among rail workers were found to be 1.5 times higher than the national average.

• Ten percent of rail employees exhibited signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – double the national average.

Claire warned that these figures are likely to worsen without proactive intervention. She explained that the unique pressures and traumatic incidents common in the rail environment make workers especially vulnerable to mental health issues, leading to increased sickness absence and burnout.

MANAGING MENTAL HEALTH In response to these challenges, Railway Mission has, in collaboration with the Chartered Institution of Railway Operators, developed P Coaching. This is a new training initiative designed to help rail staff build resilience and manage their mental health. Claire described how the program was born out of conversations with senior industry leaders who required internal, cost-effective training tailored to the realities of rail work. P training was launched in successful pilot programs for Carlisle Support Services and Northern Trains. It is designed to give rail professionals the skills to manage the mental and emotional demands of those working in the rail industry.

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FEATURE

LIAM JOHNSTON OPENING THE RECEPTION

COMPASSION AND UNDERSTANDING

LILLIAN GREENWOOD SPEAKING AT THE RECEPTION

Richard Davis, UK head of Net Company, which sponsors the Railway Mission, spoke about the importance of supporting people in high-pressure industries.

Drawing parallels between rail and technology workers, he emphasised everyone suffers if they cannot be their best selves, whether in or out of work.

Davis praised the Railway Mission’s work and reaffirmed Net Company’s commitment to supporting the initiative.

Liam Johnston concluded the reception’s speeches with a call for collaboration across government, industry, and support organisations. He encouraged those present to connect with chaplains, explore the new training initiative, and continue building a culture of care within the railway family.

With mental health remaining one of the most complex and potentially devastating challenges facing Great Britain’s railways, the work of the Railway Mission has never been more vital. The House of Commons reception served as both a celebration of its longstanding support for rail staff and a reminder that behind every incident are people who need compassion, understanding, and care.

Through its chaplaincy service and the launch of new initiatives such as P Coaching, the Railway Mission is helping the industry move beyond reactive support towards prevention, resilience, and a more open conversation about mental health. As the railway continues to confront the human impact of trauma, collaboration across the sector will be essential to ensuring those who keep the network running are never left to cope alone.

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

HONOURING RAIL'S EVERYDAY

HEROES

R

epresentatives from across the rail industry celebrated on Thursday 27 November at the RailStaff Awards 2025.

Held at Birmingham’s NEC, the event shines a spotlight on the people whose dedication keeps the railway running. Rail managers, customer service assistants, apprentices, training managers and many more were there, reflecting the industry’s wide range of skills and roles.

Bursting with excitement, pride, and celebration, the RailStaff Awards is more than 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.

Always a spectacular event, this year was no different with attendees transported to a welcoming winter wonderland.

On arrival, guests stepped into a snow-dusted Alpine village high in the mountains, where an end-of-season après ski party was in full swing. The ceremony was attended by an unprecedented 1,062 guests and attracted a record 855 nominations and 6,050 votes cast.

Broadcaster, journalist, and former politician Michael Portillo led the celebrations, putting guests at ease with his warmth, wit, and unmistakable flair. Michael rose to prominence as a cabinet minister in the 1980s and 1990s, before embarking on a hugely successful broadcasting career. His deeprooted passion for trains has taken him across the globe as the presenter of hit series including Great British Railway

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Journeys, Great Continental Railway Journeys, and Great American Railroad Journeys.

“Tonight is all about celebration,” he said. “We're here to shine a spotlight on the dedicated, passionate, and often unsung heroes who keep this country moving every day.

“2025 has been another year of challenge and progress in the industry. From infrastructure upgrades to customer service innovations, the railways are always evolving. And through it all, it is the resilience and the commitment of the people in this room tonight who keep the wheels turning.”

Michael proved to be an inspired choice of host for the evening.

After a fabulous dining experience and with each award winner named, the celebrations truly began, with fairground rides whirring into life and the dance floor welcoming anyone with the energy to dance the night way. Following a much-needed midnight breakfast, the evening drew to a close and guests made their way into the night to continue their celebrations. Once again, the event proved a huge success.

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Adam O’Connor, managing director of Rail Media, said: “The RailStaff Awards is a one-ofa-kind occasion, shining a light on the people in our industry who continually go above and beyond. It is inspiring and humbling to organise this event, and it’s a privilege to see the positive impact it has on our remarkable workforce.

Every winner and highly commended individual deserves real recognition, as do all the finalists and nominees.

“My sincere thanks go to our sponsors and supporters, whose backing makes this special evening possible. I’d like to thank our panel of judges and the entire Rail Media team for their outstanding work in bringing this memorable event together.”

THANK YOU The RailStaff Awards depends on the support of many dedicated people and groups. We’re grateful to everyone who acknowledged their colleagues’ achievements and submitted nominations. Our thanks also go to the judges, to all who voted, and to everyone who joined us at the ceremony.

Special thanks go to our category sponsors: Alstom, BTTC, Carlisle Support Services, Freightliner Group, GeoAccess, GTR, HALOS Body Cameras, Henderson & Taylor, Hitachi Rail, LNER, Readypower, ResponSec Ltd, Transport Benevolent Fund CIO, Telent, and Train’d Up. And to our gold sponsors: Amulet and Vertiv.

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24

RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

APPLAUDING RISING

RAIL STARS

F

rom graduates to apprentices, developing new talent is essential to rail’s long-term success and the RailStaff Awards shine a light on the industry’s brightest newcomers with two award categories.

The Graduate of the Year Award recognises outstanding recent graduates who are already making significant contributions to the rail industry.

Alstom’s Yasha Siddiqui was honoured this year.

Since the beginning of her placement, Yasha has had a transformative effect impact and, as chair of its Graduate Scheme, she has fostered inclusion, strengthened community, and improved onboarding through innovative initiatives like the Graduate Handbook and Alstom Metaverse induction.

Her leadership in STEM outreach and Alstom’s InspirHer programme has also inspired young women into engineering.

Balancing advocacy with technical excellence, she has advanced diversity, innovation, and collaboration across teams.

Yasha completed graduate placements across the different engineering teams at Alstom’s Litchurch Lane Works and has now moved into her permanent role as a product cost engineer. The role sees her working on exploring cost-saving ideas at the design stage of new rolling stock at Alstom’s Derby factory.

The Graduate of the Year Award was one of three won

by Alstom employees at this year’s ceremony. In total, the company secured 17 finalists across 20 categories.

“Winning multiple honours at this year’s RailStaff Awards is a fantastic achievement for Alstom and a real testament to the talent and dedication of our people,” said Rob Whyte, managing director of Alstom UK and Ireland.

“From graduate excellence to leadership in diversity and inclusion, these awards highlight the breadth of expertise and commitment that drives our success across the UK rail industry.”

The Award was presented this year by Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy.

HIGHLY COMMENDED Hana Maddasir, Heathrow Express Oliver Ensor, Network Rail

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25

BRIGHT NEW TALENT Apprenticeships provide a valuable route into the rail industry, giving people from all backgrounds the chance to develop the skills and experience needed for a rewarding career.

At the same time, apprentices play a vital role for employers, bringing fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and much-needed support as experienced staff move on.

The Apprentice of the Year Award celebrates those who enter the industry straight from education as well as those who choose to retrain later in life. Each finalist demonstrates stand-out ability, commitment, and a genuine drive to learn and grow.

Hitachi Rail’s Rohan Manion took home the prize at this year’s RailStaff Awards ceremony, and it was well earned. An engineering apprentice, Rohan has made an exceptional impression early in his career, said his colleagues who put him forward for the award.

Through his leadership, innovation, and dedication he played a central role in a project for the Department for Transport, where he delivered a high-impact report on Driver Advisory Systems, which was praised by senior leaders for its clarity and insight.

His volunteering in Ghana and outreach at apprenticeship events also reflected his dedication to learning, collaboration, and inspiring others.

“It's great to be congratulated for all of the hard work over the past three-and-a-half years of my apprenticeship,” said Rohan. “I'm really glad to have been recognised.

“I’d really like to thank David Taylor - he's given me a lot of opportunities within the rail sector and within my role at Hitachi Rail. Also, Rob Kirkbride, who’s supported me through every step of my journey and helped me develop my skills to become a better software engineer.”

Specialist rail and infrastructure services provider Readypower Group was proud to support this year’s Apprentice of the Year Award.

“We're absolutely delighted to sponsor the award, said Erin Neilson, who presented the award on behalf of the company. “Apprentices are everything for this industry, especially considering some of the skills shortages that we face.

“It’s wonderful to give people a start in the industry and help them to develop new skills.

Apprenticeships keep the industry alive and will support us through the future.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED

The UK's Specialist Rail and Infrastructure Services Provider Readypower is proud to sponsor the Apprentice of the year Award at this year's RailStaff Awards For general enquiries, contact: info@readypower.co.uk For general enquiries, contact: info@readypower.com 0118 9774 901 0118 9774 901

www.readypower.co.uk www.readypower.com

Keelie Hall, LNER Mia Sandham, AtkinsRéalis

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

INSPIRING INNOVATION

I

nnovation is one of the driving forces behind a safer, smarter, and more efficient railway, and this year’s Innovation & Technology Team or Person Award shone a spotlight on those who continually push the industry forward.

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The award celebrates the individuals and teams whose technological breakthroughs have delivered meaningful improvements across the network. Whether in digital signalling, infrastructure, rolling stock, or customer experience, all finalists demonstrated exceptional creativity and impact through their work.

This year’s winner, Network Rail’s Southern Safety Isolations Team, stood out for introducing a transformative safety advancement with benefits already being felt on track.

The team has revolutionised third-rail safety through its pioneering rollout of Negative Short Circuit Devices (NSCDs). These devices replace the traditional and hazardous practice of manual strapping on live third-rail systems, enabling isolations to be controlled remotely from a safe location.

The impact has been remarkable. With more than half of planned sites now commissioned, the team has eliminated 56,000 manual isolations in just three years, protecting thousands of staff from high-risk working environments and redefining best practice for third-rail operations nationwide.

Accepting the award, the team reflected on the scale of the achievement: “After years of design, build, trials, and refinements, it’s incredible to see the equipment installed and delivering real benefits - not just for Network Rail, but for contractors and anyone working on our infrastructure. It’s making isolations significantly safer for everyone.”

The award was presented by Ian Lockett of Vertiv Infrastructure Ltd.

HIGHLY COMMENDED Bartosz Gapsa, AECOM Robbie Mecrow, Morson Praxis

27

A SPOTLIGHT ON EXCELLENCE BEHIND THE SCENES Behind every safe and reliable railway are dedicated people and innovative teams working tirelessly out of sight. This year’s RailStaff Awards celebrated excellence in depot operations and technological innovation across the industry.

Great Western Railway’s Jack Farley celebrated on 27 November when he was named winner of the Rail Depot Team or Person Award, which recognised his exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence within depot operations.

Jack, depot engineering manager at Reading Train Care Depot, was nominated by his colleagues for consistently going above and beyond to maintain and manage rolling stock, ensuring safe, reliable, and timely train services.

Jack has led complex projects across multiple depots, including on the Class 387, 769, and 230 fleets. His leadership, problemsolving, and collaborative approach have helped to streamline operations and set a benchmark for excellence across GWR’s rail operations.

Accepting the award, he highlighted the teamwork behind every success, praising his colleagues for their support and shared commitment to keeping Britain’s railway moving.

“This is a huge surprise and I’m so grateful to my colleagues at Reading Depot – Gareth Storton and Graeme Smith – for their mentoring and leadership so far in my career,” said Jack.

“The depot is one big team, making sure we play our part in delivering a safe and reliable railway for our customers and it’s amazing to get recognised like this.”

Rail Engineer Editor David Shirres presented the award. He said: “It’s always great to see the work done by those who keep the railway running celebrated at the Railstaff Awards.

“This year I had the honour of presenting the ‘Railway Depot Team or Person’ award for which there were 15 finalists. Picking a winner from this impressive group would have been a difficult task for the judges.

“Jack was nominated both for his excellent maintenance work and leading complex rolling stock projects across multiple depots. Well done, Jack!”

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HIGHLY COMMENDED Hannah Butler, GTR Jodie Lund, Katherine Braybrook & Rebecca Jacobs, GTR

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

PUTTING PEOPLE AT

THE HEART OF RAIL

S

trong people strategies and inclusive leadership are essential to a thriving railway. This year’s RailStaff Awards recognised outstanding HR excellence and champions of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) who are shaping positive workplace cultures across the industry.

Deborah Birch, head of HR at Hull Trains, picked up the coveted HR and Recruitment Person Award, which recognises the individuals and teams who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in the strategic management of human resources and who have explored innovative approaches to attracting top talent.

Deborah has been with Hull Trains for over 10 years, working tirelessly to promote diversity, long-term career development, and colleague upskilling. On receiving the award, she said: “I'm quite overwhelmed, but feel very privileged and very proud. I’d like to thank the entire Hull Trains team, including my boss, Service Delivery Director Louise Mendham.

“Hull Trains is a small company with a really big heart. We have a strong team which provides the very best customer service. Even after relocating further north, I’ve stayed with the company because I love it so much.”

The Award was sponsored this year by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR). David Mitchell, communications lead at the GoAhead Group, on secondment from GTR, presented the prize.

“HR teams help to shape careers and create people's dreams,” he said. “It's so important that we look out for that next generation and push them forward. With an aging workforce we need to think out of the box when it comes to recruitment, but with an abundance of talent in front of us, and with HR representatives like Deborah in the driving seat, we can be sure of a bright future.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED Capability and Skills Development Team, Network Rail Lindsay Gauntlett, Lumo

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29

EMPOWERING CHANGE

EDI is a key principle in creating a workplace culture of acceptance and support, and the RailStaff Awards recognises the vital efforts of champions in this space with the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Person or Team Award.

Freightliner has sponsored the Award for a number of years and stepped up once again to lend its support. Freightliner throws itself into EDI initiatives including International Women’s Day, the Big Logistics Diversity Challenge, everywoman in Transport & Logistics, and Women in Rail among others. These are valued initiatives used to share experiences and examine and discuss topics that are important to the female frontline workforce.

“The RailStaff Awards really helps to drive forward the crucial message of EDI,” said Freightliner CEO Tim Shoveller, who presented the award.

“In an industry of over 100,000 employees, it’s essential to have the best people, and that means we must ensure we support people from all backgrounds, irrespective of any characteristic.

“It’s imperative that those who are best at their jobs are given the opportunity to succeed, and it's wonderful to see the people who are making sure the railways are more diverse.”

Alstom’s Charlotte Briers, who took home the prestigious award on 27 November, has redefined inclusive leadership at Alstom through her work with the Voices of Women network. She has built an empowering community that celebrates diverse voices and drives real change.

Charlotte’s Women@Alstom Spotlight series has given visibility to female leaders, while her advocacy for female-specific PPE, period care, and inclusive policies has shaped culture across the organisation.

“I am absolutely thrilled to have won the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award at the RailStaff Awards 2025,” said Charlotte. “This recognition means so much because EDI isn’t just a workplace initiative for me – it’s a core value.

“I want to say a huge 'thank you' to my amazing Alstom colleagues, mentors, and allies for their support and collaboration. In particular, a huge amount of gratitude goes to the chairs of Alstom's four 'Voices of' groups – Cultural Diversity, Disability, Pride, and Women – for sharing their lived experiences and mentoring me, as we tackle important topics and drive meaningful improvements.”

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

A SPOTLIGHT ON SAFETY

T

he RailStaff Awards’ Safety Team or Person Award shines a light on those who go the extra mile to boost safety in their organisation, building a strong safety culture, and dealing swiftly with antisocial behaviour.

Paula Hilliard of Network Rail stood above the competition at this year’s ceremony, taking home the coveted prize. Safety Leader Paula has over 25 years of experience in the rail industry, dedicating her career to improving safety culture and protecting colleagues, service providers, and the travelling public.

Having responded to major incidents including Hatfield and Potters Bar, Paula has also led awardwinning electrical safety campaigns, developed innovative training initiatives, and championed the Make a Challenge, Save a Life program. Her expertise, leadership, and commitment have made her a transformative figure in rail safety, and a deserving winner of 2025’s Safety Team or Person Award.

This year’s award was sponsored by HALOS Body Cameras, a global provider of bodycam hardware and software that’s proven across industries from private security and retail to transportation and logistics. HALOS’ technology is designed to excel in today’s most dynamic environments, including mass transit networks, which have become hotspots for crime.

Presenting the award, HALOS CEO Andy Ring commented: "While tech can add a critical layer of protection, we recognise that no product can surpass the vigilance of a well-prepared safety professional or team. That's why HALOS is proud to champion the RailStaff Awards, celebrating the unsung heroes who keep our rail networks secure."

HIGHLY COMMENDED Chris Cunningham, Mersey Rail TfW Trauma Team, Transport for Wales

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31

SINGING THE PRAISES OF HEALTH & SAFETY Looking after the people who keep the railway moving is more important than ever and the RailStaff Awards celebrates those who lead the way in health & wellbeing and personal safety, making a lasting difference across the industry.

The physical and mental health of rail employees is critical both on a personal level and in maintaining the network’s safe and timely operation. The Health & Wellbeing Person or Team Award therefore celebrates the individuals and teams who have championed outstanding practices in this area through innovative and proactive initiatives. The category’s stand out star this year was Colleen Johnston of Arriva Rail London.

Health & Wellbeing Specialist Colleen has revolutionised health and wellbeing at Arriva Rail London through her proactive, inclusive approach, say her colleagues. She has delivered heart, diabetes, and nutrition screenings across the network, ensuring all colleagues benefit, including night staff. Her Health & Wellbeing Roadshows, employee walks, and outreach partnerships with the Samaritans have fostered healthier habits and open conversation. By chairing the company’s wellbeing group, Colleen has embedded support and accessibility into the workplace, inspiring staff to take ownership of their health.

Security service firm ResponSec Ltd. stepped forward to sponsor the award in 2025. The company provides a wide range of security services across numerous industries and in recent years 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.

“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.”

“We were proud to Sponsor the ‘Health and Wellbeing Team or Person’ award this year, which our Head of People Tiffany had the honour of presenting on stage. Congratulations to the winner Colleen Johnston, from Arriva Rail London.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED Louise Williams, Hitachi Rail Lucy Fawkes-Grey & Lee Bladen, Great Western Railway

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

LEADING THE WAY

T

echnical expertise and strong leadership are the backbone of the railway. This year, two prestigious categories recognised the engineers and managers whose skill, vision, and commitment continue to raise standards, deliver innovation, and keep the network running safely.

One of the most respected accolades at the RailStaff Awards, the Rail Engineer of the Year Award celebrates the exceptional expertise and vision of the individuals whose work underpins the railway and drives it confidently into the future.

The award recognises engineers who not only deliver technically outstanding projects, but whose influence helps shape best practice across the wider industry.

At this year’s ceremony, the honour was presented to Mark Walsh of Hitachi Rail, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the modernisation of the UK’s digital rail infrastructure.

As lead engineer on the National Rail Enquiries Management project, Mark has been instrumental in transforming complex legacy systems into robust, scalable, cloud-native platforms capable of handling more than 2.5 million daily customer requests.

Through a combination of innovative thinking, technical precision, and strong leadership, Mark delivered a solution that significantly improved system reliability, reduced operational costs, and enhanced the overall user experience for millions of passengers.

His work has not only ensured flawless day-today performance, but has also established a new benchmark for digital excellence within the rail sector, inspiring wider adoption of modern engineering approaches across the industry.

In 2025, the Rail Engineer of the Year Award was sponsored once again by GeoAccess, a bespoke asset management company specialising in inspections on difficult-to-access sites.

Founded in 2014, GeoAccess brings together highly experienced geotechnical and structural engineers with advanced technologies including UAVs, ROVs, rope access, and confined space techniques.

By supporting this award, GeoAccess continues to champion the engineers whose skill, dedication, and ingenuity keep the rail network moving – today and for generations to come.

HIGHLY COMMENDED Batosz Gapsa, AECOM Robbie Mecrow, Morson Praxis

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33

STAND-OUT MANAGERS Rail managers shoulder a distinct set of pressures. While every role contributes to keeping the network moving, it’s managers who bear the responsibility for guiding well-coordinated teams or delivering projects on schedule and within budget.

The Rail Manager of the Year Award recognises an outstanding individual who demonstrates exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to their team. Each nominee goes beyond expectations to support their colleagues, improve performance, and drive excellence in the rail industry.

Richard Tandy, an on-board supervisor manager at GTR was astonished to be honoured with the title at the 2025 RailStaff Awards.

Richard is responsible for the coordination of Southern and Gatwick Express on-board supervisors across the network. He drives operational improvements, implements practical solutions, and ensures teams are informed and confident. His calm, decisive leadership, attention to detail, and ability to balance operational priorities strengthen staff performance and enhance service delivery across GTR’s operations.

“I’m overwhelmed,” said Richard on receiving the award. “I know it's my name on the trophy, but it's not about me. It's about the teams that I lead.

They're the ones who are out there making a difference every single day.

I just try them give them the tools that they need and support them when things don't go quite according to plan.”

“I’d like to thank Mark Franklin for nominating me in the first place, and all of my colleagues, friends, and family for voting for me to get to this stage. I’d also like to thank my much better half, Sarah.

She encouraged me to apply for my first conductor's job eight years ago and she’s supported me all the way through my career. I wouldn't be here accepting this award without her.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED Nathan Sobers, Chiltern Railways Sheree Whetren, South Western Railway

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

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very RailStaff Awards nominee is a hero in their own right, but the recipients of the Lifesaver Award stand apart - they’re the ones who have literally brought someone back from the brink.

The Lifesaver Award recognises those staff who have used all their skills and training to help save a life on the rails and, this year, Carlisle Support Services’ Dorothy Omovbude was honoured for her split-second intervention.

Dorothy demonstrated extraordinary bravery and empathy during a potential suicide incident at Homerton Station. During the incident, she took immediate control of the situation, arranging for trains to be stopped and calling emergency services.

Staying with the distressed individual, she offered comfort and dignity, asking members of the public to shield the individual with their jackets. Dorothy’s calm, compassionate leadership prevented tragedy and showcased the utmost care, professionalism, and humanity.

“To have been honoured with this award is absolutely amazing,” said Dorothy. “It shows that our work is appreciated by our company, Carlisle, who nominated us, and also by the wider industry.”

“We don’t view what we do as just ‘work’. Every day is an achievement. Not only by saving lives, but by providing a service to the public, and making people feel comfortable and relaxed during their travel.”

Craig Smith, from category sponsor RailwayPeople.com, presented the award.

“The Lifesaver Award shines a light on the remarkable individuals who step forward when it matters most,” he said. “Dorothy’s courage, compassion, and decisive actions embody the very best of our industry. We’re proud to support an award that recognises such extraordinary humanity and professionalism.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED Daniel Cook, Southeastern Hugh Irvine, Amey Rail

YRP - RWP.indd 1

22/02/2024 17:40

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35

CELEBRATING CARE AND COMPASSION

Each year, the RailStaff Award honours the teams and individuals who go out of their way to make life a little easier, and the nominees for one particular award make a significant contribution to society as a whole.

Nominees for the Charity Award dedicate their time and talent to supporting, promoting, and fundraising for a wide range of inspiring causes that make a real difference in people’s lives. The winner exemplifies how the rail industry can be a force for positive change.

This year, the honour went to Dave Bateson of Network Rail. With 33 years in the industry, Dave has turned personal adversity into an inspiring force for change. After being diagnosed with Stage 4 Melanoma in 2019, he used his experience to raise awareness of sun safety, wellbeing, and resilience across Network Rail and beyond.

Delivering powerful talks, publishing widely-read articles, and engaging thousands of colleagues, Dave has become a catalyst for change.

His fundraising efforts and his compassionate leadership have made him a true role model.

“It feels amazing to have won this award,” he said. “I was so surprised. It was great just to be nominated, and to make it through to the final was lovely, but to hear my name read out, just… wow!”

“After surviving cancer, I’m now giving something back. Since becoming ill, I’ve become involved in charity work – not only raising money but also educating people about the dangers of the sun, especially frontline rail teams.

“It’s one of those things that people don’t really think about, but it’s so important to take precautions. The pioneering drug that I took when I was ill saved my life, and there are better medications coming out today. But you don’t want to let it get to that stage.

Prevention is much better than cure.”

The RailStaff Awards thanks Alstom for supporting the Charity Award in 2025.

HIGHLY COMMENDED Aidan Courts, AtkinsRéalis Tracey Cheung, Amulet

Driven by legacy, powered by tomorrow alstom.com/alstom-uk-and-ireland

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

RAIL PROJECTS

THAT INSPIRE

D

elivering successful rail projects relies on collaboration, innovation, and outstanding teamwork.

Two new RailStaff Awards celebrate the project teams and individuals whose expertise has brought complex schemes to life, from community-focused initiatives to major infrastructure renewals.

High-performance infrastructure project consultancy BTTC was an ideal sponsor for the Project Team or Person Award (Under £5 Million) category, which celebrates individuals or teams who have successfully delivered projects within the rail industry, with a total value under £5 million.

Alstom’s ‘The Greatest Gathering’ team was ecstatic to be named as the inaugural winner of this brand-new prize, honoured for its work organising the Greatest Gathering celebration, held at Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane Works. The event celebrated 200 years of the modern railway with over 40,000 visitors, 140 iconic rail vehicles, STEM activities, rides, and talks.

Organised in-house with hundreds of volunteers, the event balanced heritage and innovation, safety and spectacle, and included the world’s first Pride parade on a train. The festival united communities, inspired the next generation, raised over £60,000 for charity, and showcased the UK rail industry at its best.

“Just to be nominated was incredible,” said Ben Goodwin, director of communications at Alstom.

“We were a small team, but we made it all happen with the help of the wider industry and the railway family. Yes, this award is for our team, but none of this would have been possible without everybody’s support.

“It’s amazing that in this 200th year of the railway there is still such passion within the industry, for the past and for the present. But the incredible thing about The Greatest Gathering was how everyone was looking to the future and showcasing what's coming next.

“We're so grateful that everybody shared our vision and got involved, and to have this award is just the icing on the cake!”

HIGHLY COMMENDED George Barratt, Network Rail James Allman-Wright, Network Rail

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37

COMPLEX PROJECTS Westbury South Renewal Team from the South Rail Systems Alliance (SRSA) celebrated as they were presented with the Project Team or Person Award (Over £5 Million).

Across Christmas and New Year 2024, the SRSA team delivered the largest and most complex track renewal of CP7 at Westbury South, a critical hub on the Great Western network. The 30day blockade renewed 30 signals and crossing units, 2,000 metres of track, and modernised signalling, drainage, and platforms.

Through rigorous planning, innovation, and collaboration, the team achieved £11 million in efficiencies, avoided six months of disruption, and secured the reliability of a key national junction for the next three decades.

“This is a complete surprise, especially considering the competition we were up against,” said Sean Murray, technical director at AECOM. “This project has been almost a year in the making, and his involved a lot of collaboration, a lot of cooperation, and a lot of pressure. It’s been the biggest renewal project on the Great Western network, and this award more than makes up for all the hard work.”

Multi-disciplinary contractor Henderson & Taylor sponsored the Award. Within the rail industry Henderson & Taylor is well known for delivering high-quality station upgrades and associated improvements that enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.

Managing Director Matt Lynch said: “As a company which strives to showcase quality and innovation in rail schemes using our own in-house resources, we understand the tremendous effort and expertise it takes to truly excel in the delivery of these bigger projects.

“We’re delighted to support this award

for the best Project Team or Person (over £5 million). The Rail Staff Awards are a brilliant occasion to recognise the incredible work of our people and teams, and we look forward to celebrating that tonight.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED Diamond Rail Services and Hitachi Julie Williams, Alstom

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

DEVELOPING TALENT,

DELIVERING SUSTAINABILITY

I

nvesting in people and the planet is central to the rail industry’s future. At this year’s RailStaff Awards, two standout categories celebrated those driving lasting change: from empowering the next generation through learning and development, to pioneering practical solutions that support a more sustainable railway.

The industry’s supplier of choice Driving service excellence in integrated support services

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The Learning, Development & Investing in People Award recognises individuals or teams that show exceptional dedication to developing talent across the rail industry.

Carlise Support Services was proud to sponsor this year’s award, presented at Birmingham’s NEC. Carlisle is committed to developing exceptional people, offering staff members countless opportunities to work across multiple contracts and learn from the very best to help them achieve their true potential.

Presented by Paul Brewer, the company’s head of operations (rail), the award was handed to Mark Hector and Natalie Hill from Transport for Wales (TfW).

Mark and Natalie have transformed leadership culture at TfW through their award-winning ‘Leading With…’ programme.

Reaching over 310 colleagues, their work goes far beyond traditional training, combining insights discovery, coaching, and behavioural learning to foster inclusive, reflective leadership.

Participants report greater confidence, self-awareness, and improved collaboration, with promotion rates rising annually. Mark and Natalie have built a sustainable leadership community that is shaping the future of TfW’s people and organisational culture.

“This is amazing,” said Mark. “We’ve been working on this for four years and we've seen so much improvement within TfW. Diversity and inclusion is also a huge part of this initiative too, and this award proves that our efforts were all worth it.”

“We’ve seen a lot of external pushback in the past,” added Natalie, “and sometimes thought that maybe this wasn't the type of thing that people wanted in the real world. But TfW has allowed us to talk about people and their behaviours, and to help individuals professionally and personally. It's just fantastic that they recognise that!”

HIGHLY COMMENDED Chris Davey, Transport for Wales Jack Gookey, Network Rail

39

SUSTAINABILITY STARS

With environmental issues more urgent than ever, the RailStaff Awards celebrates those who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to driving positive change in the realm of sustainability, climate action, and achieving net-zero impact.

The Sustainability Champion of the Year Award rewards individuals and teams who have taken extraordinary steps to reshape practices, policies, and perspectives, forging a path toward a greener, brighter future.

The 2025 Award was presented to a team from Advanced Hydrogen Technology (AHT), K2C Rail, RSK1stinrail, DB-ESG, HNRC-Swietelsky, who worked together to pioneer a breakthrough in reducing scope 1 emissions from diesel engines across the rail sector.

Central to the initiative was the Engine Carbon Clean system – a hydrogen-powered, chemical-free cleaning solution that removes carbon build-up in just 45 minutes.

Independently validated, the ECC has achieved CO₂ reductions of over 30%, improved fuel efficiency, and lowered maintenance needs, proving a practical step toward a cleaner, more sustainable railway.

“Although AHT developed the technology, without RSK1stinrail, K2C, HNRC-Sertowski, and, DB-ESG, we wouldn't have entered the rail industry,” said Ben Kattenhorn from AHT. “The industry was not on our radar, but now we've been introduced we can see how absolutely huge this industry is and it could become the one of the biggest parts of our business.

“I think we're going to see combustion engines in use for the next 30-40 years - there's no way around it - but we still have to make rail cleaner and that's where our ECC technology comes in.

Hitachi Rail stepped up to sponsor this year’s Sustainability Champion Award. As a trusted partner to operators around the world, with expertise across every part of the rail ecosystems, the company is committed to driving a sustainable mobility transition and helping every passenger, customer, and community enjoy more connected, seamless, and sustainable transport.

The RailStaff Awards thanks Hitachi Rail for its support.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

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Quattro Sustainability Team, Quatro Plant Riona Ainge, Systra

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

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O

REWARDING EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE

utstanding service is the heartbeat of any successful organisation, and in the rail industry it can define a passenger’s entire journey. Most importantly, it builds trust, loyalty, and long-term confidence in rail travel.

The Customer Service Person or Team Award celebrates those who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional experiences.

In 2025, the award this year was presented to Grand Central’s Customer Relations Team, whose achievements set a new standard for excellence. Over the past year, the team has resolved an impressive 98.6% of cases within 20 days, boosted customer satisfaction by 22%, and handled more than 42,000 interactions with unwavering professionalism and compassion.

The team’s proactive initiatives and cross-functional collaboration have driven real improvements across the business. It has transformed feedback into action, restored passenger trust, and created a compassionate, highperforming team culture that defines customer advocacy.

“This represents several years of hard work that’s finally paid off for us and our customers,” said Grand Central’s Sarah Newton on behalf of the team.

“It’s a small team, but the amount of work these guys get through – and how they support our customers – is exceptional.”

The Award was presented by Paul Dalgleish of Train’d Up, a leading national provider of apprenticeships and work-based learning solutions. A long-standing supporter of the RailStaff Awards, Train’d Up continues to champion excellence across the rail industry.

HIGHLY COMMENDED Laura Holmes, Southeastern Ollie Ivan, South Western Railway

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STATION STARS Around 2,500 employees are responsible for running Great Britain’s rail stations and each has a huge responsibility on their shoulders. Not only do these superstars brighten the days of customers: they go the extra mile to support the colleagues they work alongside.

The RailStaff Awards honour these hard working and well-loved individuals with the Station Staff Team or Person Award which recognises the outstanding contributions of those providing exceptional customer service and ensuring smooth station operations.

GWRs Emma-Jane Kennedy was astonished to win the award this year.

As dispatch supervisor at Weston-superMare, Emma exemplifies dedication and compassion. Responsible for the safe and efficient running of the station, she consistently ensures punctual dispatch, compliance, and operational excellence.

Beyond her duties, Emma supports colleagues, enhances customer experience, and leads community initiatives such as the station carnival. A qualified first aider and mental health first aider, she fosters wellbeing and teamwork across the station.

“I’m in shock,” said Emma on accepting the Award. “I was up against so many great people, that just to be a finalist was fabulous.

I was already a winner in my own heart, but this is just amazing.

“I’d love to thank the lady who nominated me, I owe it all to her. She recognised the work I do, and I'm so grateful for that.”

The Station Staff Team or Person Award was sponsored in 2025 by the Transport Benevolent Fund CIO (TBF).

"TBF helps its members and their dependants in times of need, and sponsoring the Station Staff Team or Person Award is our way of saying thank you to those who help customers on a daily basis," said TBF CEO John Sheehy.

"As well as carrying out their regular duties, without warning, they can be dealing with a traumatic event and, in some cases, help save someone's life. They are a customer's first point of contact and play a vital role in making the customer experience a safe and pleasant one.”

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE STATION STAFF AWARD 2025 TBF provides help and support for you, your live-in partner and dependent children during times of need.

A comprehensive range of health, welfare and financial support for less than 20p a day.

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HIGHLY COMMENDED Keeley Rees and Shola Ola, Carlisle Support Services Susan Temple & Janice Povah, ScotRail

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

A LIFETIME'S

COMMITMENT

T

he rail industry is lucky enough to include thousands of staff who’ve served faithfully throughout their entire working lives. Many of those now reaching retirement age can boast decades of dedication and it’s not unheard of for employees to leave with 50 years or more under their belt.

The Lifetime Achievement Award honours those who’ve devoted their lives to the rail industry, leaving a lasting impact through their contributions. Whether that’s through pioneering

A trusted partner and employer of choice for the UK rail industry.

Proud to sponsor the lifetime achievement award.

projects, critical safety improvements, or by helping to shape the industry’s future, winners of the award embody excellence, dedication, and service.

After many years of supporting the RailStaff Awards, Freightliner CEO Tim Shoveller was awarded with one of his own, taking home the Lifetime Achievement Award on 27 November.

Tim’s 30-year railway career has shaped the industry’s evolution from operations to leadership. Rising from trainee guard at Guildford to CEO of Freightliner, he has championed innovation, integration, and collaboration across the passenger and freight sectors.

His work in developing new freight services and supporting the Railway Benefit Fund reflect a lifelong commitment to progress and community.

Tim’s inclusive leadership style continues to inspire colleagues, strengthen teams, and drive lasting change across the railway.

“This is a huge honour,” he said. “When you look at the achievements of all the other finalists here tonight, to be recognised by the panel of judges is just superb.”

Top communications technology firm Telent has thrown its support behind the Lifetime Achievement award for a number of years and returned as a muchvalued sponsor in 2025.

Specialising in the design, build, support, and management of the rail network’s critical digital infrastructure, Telent provides its services to many of the UK’s largest and most mission-critical operational systems and has delivered intelligent transport solutions and network maintenance for over 30 years.

“It is incredible to see the dedication and commitment of those who are shaping the future of rail at the RailStaff Awards,” said Telent Rail Director Kevin Bonanno, who presented the award.

“The RailStaff Awards is a great opportunity to recognise those individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond to keep our railway running safely, which is why Telent is honoured to be one its sponsors.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED www.telent.com

0800 783 7761

talktotelent@telent.com

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Alison Thompson, Amey Steve Wardle

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CHAMPIONS OF THE RAIL INDUSTRY Long service, unwavering commitment, and passionate advocacy are all characteristics that run deep throughout the railway’s stalwart employees. One special honour recognises the individuals who tirelessly champion the industry’s values, and whose contribution leaves a lasting legacy.

Launched in 2024, in honour of Tom O’Connor, founder of Rail Media and visionary behind the RailStaff Awards, the Rail Ambassador Award celebrates those who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to promoting and advancing the rail industry.

The Award honours the individuals who champion the industry, serve as positive advocates, inspire others, and help to drive positive change.

Maro Sakpere, a fleet service engineer at Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), received the award in 2025. From station assistant to service engineer, Maro has built a remarkable career defined by advocacy, inclusion, and mentorship. A winner of CIRO’s Multicultural Apprenticeship Award, he champions diversity through leadership, mentoring, and employee engagement.

Maro’s work inspires colleagues from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue rail careers and achieve their potential.

Recognised nationally for his impact, he continues to drive meaningful cultural change across the industry, making rail a more inclusive and empowering place for all.

This year, the Award was sponsored by LNER, the publicly owned operator on a mission to transform rail travel. Through continued investment in its people, services, and modern Azuma fleet, LNER is setting new standards in comfort, reliability, and customer experience, while building on more than a century of proud railway heritage.

A better journey for our future Better for people Better for places Better for planet

LNER is proud to sponsor the Rail Ambassador of the Year Award.

A better journey

HIGHLY COMMENDED Camille Parchment, Avanti West Coast Gregory March, Network Rail

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

INFRASTRUCTURE

MEETS INSPIRATION : VERTIVE INFRASTRUCTURE LTD

T

he RailStaff Awards is one of the most important nights in the industry calendar, and we’re proud to host it every single year. However, an event as spectacular as this simply wouldn’t be possible without the support of the wider industry.

By helping to fund the evening, sponsors play a vital role in recognising achievements, inspiring future talent, and strengthening the sense of community within the sector.

Their involvement ensures that the individuals and teams who keep Britain’s railway running, often under challenging and unseen circumstances, receive the recognition they truly deserve.

There are many ways to support the industry’s most esteemed awards ceremony, and this flexibility allows companies of all shapes and sizes to engage with the event. While some organisations choose to back a particular category that aligns with their expertise or values, others prefer to support the evening as a whole, helping to create a memorable night for everyone in attendance.

NATURAL ALIGNMENT Vertiv Infrastructure Ltd signalled its support this year by joining the RailStaff Awards as a Gold Sponsor, demonstrating its dedication to the professionals who keep the railway safe, resilient, and running. Vertiv’s sponsorship reflects a natural alignment between its mission and the spirit of the RailStaff Awards: both are focused on protecting, supporting, and empowering the people who underpin rail operations.

As a global leader in critical digital infrastructure, Vertiv plays an essential role in keeping the UK rail network resilient. The company supplies critical power, cooling, and digital-infrastructure systems that support some of the most vital aspects of railway operations, including signalling, communications, and station systems. Vertiv’s portfolio includes advanced UPS and DC power solutions designed to maintain uptime for safety-critical equipment, along with monitoring and lifecycle services that help operators manage assets more effectively and anticipate issues before they occur.

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A key component of this resilience is Vertiv’s specialist battery refurbishment service, operated from their dedicated facility in Sheffield. Focusing primarily on Rolling Stock Ni-Cad chemistries, the facility utilises advanced charging systems to conduct comprehensive performance analyses, ensuring batteries meet strict manufacturer specifications for safety and longevity.

This ‘reprocessing’ approach not only mitigates critical risks like thermal runaway but also highlights a commitment to sustainability by ‘recycling’ energy during the discharge process to power other circuits in a near-closed loop. By enabling operators to move from theoretical design life to actual estimated life, Vertiv ensures that rail investments are optimised and critical systems remain future-proof.

Vertiv has a proven track record of helping some of the largest rail operators in the world meet operational challenges and protect their infrastructure. Its engineers, service teams, and project managers bring a wealth of experience gained from years of designing, building, and maintaining mission-critical systems for rail and transport applications.

WITH THANKS By supporting the RailStaff Awards at Gold level, Vertiv highlights the importance of celebrating the dedication and professionalism of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Its contribution reinforces the message that resilient infrastructure and exceptional people go hand in hand.

We thank Vertiv for playing its part in bringing the RailStaff Awards 2025 to life and for championing the people who make the rail industry stronger every single day.

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Vertiv in rail transport Secure your rail infrastructure with Vertiv™ Rail Solutions

Proud sponsors of the RailStaff Awards 2025

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RAILSTAFF AWARDS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

HITACHI RAIL

HONOURING RAILWAY TALENT

T

he backing of the rail industry is crucial to the success of the RailStaff Awards and helps to ensure its unsung heroes receive the appreciation and applause they deserve. We were therefore delighted to welcome Hitachi Rail as a Platinum Sponsor in 2025.

As a global leader in rail technology, engineering, and passenger experience solutions, Hitachi Rail has a deep appreciation for the people who operate, maintain, and improve the railway every day. Its sponsorship reflects a belief that behind every great innovation, every new fleet, and every operational milestone, there are skilled professionals whose efforts deserve recognition.

Across the UK, Hitachi Rail plays an instrumental role in shaping the modern railway. From its high-profile train manufacturing and maintenance operations to its advancements in digital mobility, electrification, and smart infrastructure, the company has had a profound impact on the industry’s performance, resilience, and sustainability. It supports fleets that carry millions of passengers each year and contributes to the ongoing transformation of Britain’s railways, ensuring they remain fit for the future.

With the company’s influence not limited to technology alone, Hitachi Rail is equally committed to championing the people at the heart of rail by investing in apprentices, engineers, technicians, and operational teams who bring innovation and service excellence to life. This focus on people mirrors the ethos of the RailStaff Awards.

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LONG-STANDING COMMITMENT By stepping up as a Platinum Sponsor, the company underscores the importance of recognising the talent, dedication, and resilience that underpin the railway’s success. Its support helps ensure that those who work tirelessly are given a platform to be celebrated. It also sends a clear message: advanced technology, world-class fleets, and new rail systems are only as strong as the people who build, operate, and maintain them.

Hitachi Rail’s involvement also reflects its long-standing commitment to sector-wide collaboration. Whether partnering with operators to boost reliability, working with suppliers to drive innovation, or engaging with local communities near its depots and manufacturing sites, the company continues to play an active role in supporting the wider rail ecosystem.

Its values of safety, service, and continuous improvement align closely with the spirit of the RailStaff Awards, making its sponsorship a natural fit. By recognising excellence and encouraging ambition, Hitachi Rail helps champion a culture where people feel valued, motivated, and proud of their contribution to the railway.

All at the RailStaff Awards extend our sincere thanks to Hitachi Rail for its partnership and support. Its contribution, along with that of all our sponsors, is instrumental in making the event a success and in helping us shine a light on the exceptional individuals of this critical industry.

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Driving the Mobility Transition Proud to sponsor the RailStaff Awards 2025

hitachirail.com

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PROGRESS & INNOVATION

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

DRIVING SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION IN SECURITY AND FACILITIES

C

arlisle Support Services has opened registration for its Innovation Lab 2026 industry conference, which returns to Liverpool’s iconic ACC on Thursday 5 March 2026.

Innovation Lab 2026 brings together more than 600 industry leaders, 50+ exhibitors, expert speakers, innovators, and senior decision-makers from across the cleaning, security, and facilities management sectors to collaborate and explore the latest technologies, futuristic strategies, sustainable solutions, and emerging trends shaping the industry’s next chapter.

GREENER, SMARTER, MORE CONNECTED

CORE THEMES

Innovation Lab 2026 will once again operate as a fully carbon-neutral and sustainably produced event, demonstrating how progress and the planet can thrive together. Every aspect of the Lab, be it production, operations, travel, or event logistics to supplier partnerships, will be delivered with an unwavering commitment to bringing a positive change and setting a benchmark for green innovation within the support services industry.

“Innovation Lab 2026 is about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible,” says Paul Evans, Chief Executive Officer of Carlisle Support Services.

“We’re bringing together the brightest minds, the most transformative technologies, and forwardthinking organisations to make our industries smarter, cleaner, and greener. The Innovation Lab 2026 will be our most dynamic and exciting yet, shaping the future of how we work, live, and care for frontline staff while going beyond ideas to deliver meaningful change.”

The event will explore a range of forward-looking themes that are shaping the future of support services.

Delegates can expect an inspiring line-up of expert speakers, live demonstrations, and future-focused discussions addressing the most critical themes facing the sector today.

The event will showcase real-world solutions for building greener, carbonneutral operations while highlighting how emerging technology including AI and robotics enhance safety, efficiency, and human potential.

Attendees will gain insight into people and technology integrations, inclusive approaches to facilitate operational excellence, as well as tangible strategies to enhance resilience and drive social value.

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RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

A MUST-ATTEND EVENT With over 50 cutting-edge exhibitors and countless interactive sessions designed to spark collaboration, the Innovation Lab will inspire delegates to think boldly, act sustainably, and embrace change. Carlisle is offering a unique opportunity for attendees to engage directly with innovators, and be a part of insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and breakthrough solutions that support both business success and environmental stewardship.

CARLISLE SUPPORT SERVICES Carlisle Support Services is a leading supplier of value-added solutions to chosen niche markets. Employing aound 5,000 people, it focuses on the provision of cleaning, facilities, security, and events support services.

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Carlisle partners with its clients in longterm relationships to deliver sustainable service innovations and operating efficiencies.

Continuous improvement in service quality standards is built into all Carlisle business solutions. The company aims to create business efficiencies, which translate into an improvement in shareholder and stakeholder value.

Carlisle looks forward to showcasing the latest innovations and advancements in the industry while celebrating the outstanding achievements of its exceptional team members. Join the company for a day of networking, inspiration, and recognition as it continues to drive excellence and innovation within the industry.

REGISTER NOW The Innovation Lab has fast become one of the UK’s most respected forums for knowledge sharing and influential gathering across the support services landscape. The event promises to deliver its most ambitious programme yet, celebrating the power of technology, people, and sustainability to transform how essential services are delivered across the UK. Spaces are limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged to secure attendance.

Exhibitor and partnership opportunities are also available through the website.

Delegate registrations are now live at: innovationlab.carlislesupportservices.com

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PROGRESS & INNOVATION

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

ALSTOM'S GREATEST GATHERING LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY A lstom’s landmark Railway 200 celebration, The Greatest Gathering, has delivered a powerful legacy beyond the tracks, raising more than £100,000 for charities and heritage causes.

Held at Derby’s historic Litchurch Lane Works, the record-breaking event brought together rail enthusiasts, industry figures, and volunteers to celebrate 200 years of railway innovation while generating vital funds to support the railway family and preserve Britain’s rail heritage.

Between Friday 1 and Sunday 3 August 2025, the event gave more than 40,000 rail fans the opportunity to witness in excess of 140 rail vehicles at Alstom’s biggest rolling stock factory, while millions more enjoyed the award-winning festival virtually around the world. The Greatest Gathering also marked the first time in almost 50 years that the Derby site had opened to the public.

“Raising over £100,000 is an outstanding result and a testament to the generosity of rail fans, partners and the hundreds of volunteers who made The Greatest

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Gathering possible. We’re proud that these funds will support national charities and the heritage organisations that keep Britain’s railway story alive,” said Andy Butters, managing director, Derby Litchurch Lane Works at Alstom.

He added: “Opening our Litchurch Lane Works to the public for the first time in almost 50 years was a special moment for Derby, Alstom, and the wider industry. It allowed us to celebrate two centuries of innovation made here, across the country and around the world, and this fundraising milestone shows how powerfully our railway heritage continues to inspire.”

On Monday 8 December, The Greatest Gathering Organising Committee presented a giant cheque, signifying the more than £100,000 raised from the event’s ticket sales, vendor fees, and merchandise.

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

Revenues will now be split between Railway 200’s five chosen charities – Alzheimer's Research UK, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Children, Railway Mission, and Transport Benevolent Fund CIO – alongside more than 50 railway heritage organisations that took part in the event itself.

“We are immensely proud to have been included in this oncein-a-lifetime, record-breaking event, and we share this moment in history with the fantastic organising team,” said Jo Kaye, chief executive officer of the Railway Benefit Fund.

“Supporting the railway family will always be our priority, and the proceeds raised will directly allow us to give the people behind the UK's railways and their families a helping hand when they face difficult challenges, such as illness, injury or financial hardship. This will make a real difference right away.”

OFFICIAL ARTWORK At the same time as the major fundraising announcement, The Greatest Gathering’s official artwork – a large oil painting by the event’s artist in residence, Tim O’Brien – went on display for the first time. The Nottinghamshire artist attended the entire festival where he worked ‘en plein air’ (the practice of painting outdoors) and his finished piece captures, in meticulous detail, the rolling stock and diverse groups of people that made Alstom’s festival so special.

More than 500 Alstom colleagues volunteered as part of The Greatest Gathering, with many of them attending the grand unveiling of the official artwork in J shop; a large, open-plan office space situated at the heart of Alstom’s 90-acre Derby site. The painting proudly sits below a large aluminium train headboard, designed, manufactured and finished for the festival by Chesterfield-based Newton Castings.

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The artwork was unveiled by legendary music producer and rail enthusiast, Pete Waterman OBE. As well as bringing his 64 ft-long OO gauge Making Tracks 3 model layout to The Greatest Gathering, he is also charity president of the Railway Benefit Fund.

Furthermore, he can even be spotted in Tim’s painting, alongside other UK household names such as broadcaster and former politician Michael Portillo and journalist and presenter Jeremy Vine, who also attended The Greatest Gathering. The artist even captured the colourful participants of the world’s first Pride parade on a train, which took place on the Saturday of the three-day festival.

Opened by the Midland Railway in 1876, Derby Litchurch Lane is one of the world’s largest rolling stock factories and the only UK facility that designs, engineers, builds and tests trains for domestic and export markets. Indeed, the day after The Greatest Gathering closed to the public, preparatory work began in earnest for the manufacture of new Elizabeth line trains, with the production line opening two months later.

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PROGRESS & INNOVATION

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

trains together at my place of work reminded me how far the rail industry has come – and how exciting its future is.

“It truly was an honour to be part of the record-breaking event that welcomed thousands of visitors to my home city, all united in our shared passion for the railways.

“As the railway looks towards its next 200 years, it will demand new skills and fresh thinking, and I’m ready to embrace that challenge. Railway 200 has shown me that this industry never stands still and I’m truly proud to be part of its next chapter.”

LOOKING FORWARD CLASS 507

Following the presentation in J shop, Alstom colleagues were invited to visit the site’s 1.6 km-long Test Track, where they became among the first people to ride in preservation on one of the exhibits from The Greatest Gathering, former Merseyrail Class 507, No. 507001.

507001 carried Queen Elizabeth II when she officially opened the Merseyrail network in 1978. After a 46-year career, the unit was retired in November 2024 before being bought by the Class 507 Preservation Society for just £1. Volunteers and Alstom apprentices are carefully restoring the three-carriage train before it moves to a permanent home. The Class 507 Preservation Society will also receive a portion of The Greatest Gathering proceeds to help their heritage work going forward.

TIME CAPSULE Earlier in the day, Alstom also took part in a time capsule burial ceremony with representatives from Derby College and Railway 200 at Derby Roundhouse. Built in 1839 on the site of the former Midland Railway Locomotive Works, today it is the focal point of Derby College’s Roundhouse Campus.

The contents of the capsule included: • A letter from the Railway 200 team to the organisers of the 250th anniversary.

• A sealed personal letter from Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy to his successor in 2075.

• A newspaper dated 27 September 2025, featuring the bicentenary celebrations in North East England.

• A commemorative poem from the Poet Laureate, Simon Armitage CBE. • A letter from the Railway 200 Charity Partnership (Alzheimer’s Research UK, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Mission, Transport Benevolent Fund and Railway Children), which raised money to protect rail memories for the future.

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Railway 200’s Emma Roberts said: “In time-honoured fashion the capsule captures the essence of what has been an amazing celebration of rail’s transformative impact on people’s lives and livelihoods.

We’re delighted that it will rest in an iconic building in the new home of the railway, as the city helps to shape the future of a British invention that changed the world.

“When opened, in 50 years’ time, the Railway 200 capsule will be a poignant reminder of a landmark year in rail’s continuing development.”

Jack Rhodes, advanced apprentice at Alstom, also spoke at the event. He said: “Seeing so many historic and modern

From raising vital funds for charities and heritage groups to inspiring the next generation of railway professionals, The Greatest Gathering has proven that Railway 200 was about far more than looking back.

By opening its doors, celebrating its people, and uniting communities around a shared passion, Alstom has shown how the railway’s rich history continues to shape a dynamic and inclusive future.

As the industry looks ahead to its next 200 years, the legacy of The Greatest Gathering will endure – not only in the £100,000 raised, but in the pride, inspiration, and momentum it has generated across the railway family.

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YOUNG RAIL PROFESSIONALS

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

S L A N IO S S E F O R P L I YOUNG RA INNOVATION D N U O R A L AL

ER AT OPERATIONS OFFIC F IE H C , ER M R A H D RICHAR , REFLECTS ON RAIL P) R (Y LS A N IO SS FE YOUNG RAIL PRO G TECHNOLOGIES IN G ER EM W O H D N INNOVATION A PROJECTS, AND , G IN LL A N G SI G N ARE RESHAPI RAIL INDUSTRY. E TH SS RO C A FE LI G EVERYDAY WORKIN

S

ome days it feels like the rail industry is rolling out innovation as quickly as trains leave Crewe station, which is just a short walk from my Network Rail office. On others, when I look at some of the historic legacy systems around areas where there’ll be future projects (like Carlisle for the West Coast North Modernisation programme) I find myself wondering: is the European Train Control System (ETCS) still considered ‘new’?

© iStockPhoto.com/holgs

I’m not a philosopher paid to portray my thoughts, though my role at YRP allows me to convey my ideas to my chairs / vice chairs of committees on their objectives for the year. Day-to-day, I’m a senior project engineer, specialised in signalling. I help lead the modernisation of the railway for passengers and freight, focusing on integrating signalling that spans centuries and working with other engineering disciplines trying not to upset them too much (or make things too expensive).

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Richard Harmer.

A DAY IN THE LIFE Even in my day job, it seems that some innovations have crept out of nowhere, the likes of which the 2017, newly-graduated me would not believe could be here. When travelling to work, for instance, I first arrive at Meadowhall train station, catching the 06:55 to Stockport for a change to get to Crewe. My train arrives and appears too long for the platform – but is it?

It turns out TransPennine Express has trains fitted with Coach Automatic Selective Door Opening (CASDO), which is an innovative way to ensure passengers can access the whole train safely, only opening the doors which fit within the specification for the platform length. I must get on at the right door, which I’ll admit can sometimes catch me out on the way home, having to quickly make my way through the carriages once the train has left Sheffield.

I walk from Crewe station to Network Rail’s Mannin House and arrive at my adjustable desk - another day-to-day example of innovation affecting our roles. I’ve had an adjustable desk since during Covid, and it helped break up the monotony a bit by getting me out of my seat,

RAILSTAFF NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2025

YOUNG RAIL PROFESSIONALS

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© Alexey Fedorenko/Adobe Stock

along with wandering around the house for the odd coffee and going for my daily walk.

‘Your wellbeing is always a priority’ - that’s a message that’s resonated with me while I’ve been at Network Rail. These desks get you up out of your seat, talking to colleagues whilst standing, and empowering you to move round to people more. They also help you to see who’s on a call, so I can manoeuvre myself towards them for a good chat or project update.

Now onto my work for the day, going through meetings to see discussions and actions for projects. Typically, Co-pilot, Microsoft Teams, and video transcripts are common tools that make basic tasks more efficient, such as tracking what we say in meetings. This technology has proved a huge help with recovering missing details in conversations, but it has its pitfalls.

As a relative railway newbie, I’m passionate about developing the next generation of industry leaders. Sometimes, I can’t help but feel that when graduates and apprentices first start out, wedging themselves into meetings by taking the minutes is critical for early development.

There are projects which would have been discussed in concept before most even started their learning journey in the railway, and this new technology can make it too easy to record key details without the same process of remembering, discussing, and, in many cases, clarifying what’s actually going on.

STANDARDISED SYSTEMS Shift over to looking at documents from a recent visit to AtkinsRéalis’ Egham tech hub for a look at its Advanced Signalling Method (ASM).

The signalling industry is progressing relatively well. Modular Signalling is a phrase I hear weekly, sometimes daily. Trying to standardise systems today so that future enhancements and renewals can be installed with minimal disruption and as cost-effectively as possible, could not be better emphasised, what with all the talk around money these days. Holistic systems like this can be a little intimidating at first, with the scale of changes or parts of the overall system affected but it’s great to see how, from the project to the end user, it’s all considered in the process.

In a similar way, I think about how ETCS will change the industry as it’s further introduced through the likes of the East Coast Digital Programme,

Transpennine Route Upgrade, and WCN Modernisation, which has at its heart EULYNX, a signalling term common throughout not just the UK, but most of Europe on standardising Signalling systems.

When I look across Europe, there has been the introduction of technology such as Hand-Held-Terminals, which allow for the control and hand back of possessions by the PICOP on-track – a brilliant way of adding redundancy to the management of on-track improvement works, rather than just relying on comms between the PICOP and signaller.

Cyber security is a concern. How safe can any new system be from attackers? ETCS has ways of protecting the onboard and trackside systems through functionality like Online Key Management, using cryptographic keys to ensure the right technology talks to each other, uncompromised. However, I wonder if AI, the current flavour of the moment, will change that? We’ll wait and see.

LOOKING AHEAD What progress and innovation would I like to see in future? I’m a big believer that the railway is like a living and breathing thing. When areas struggle or break, you feel it elsewhere, just like if you strain your back getting out of a car and can barely move for the rest of the day. Or, just like breathing, you don’t notice the fluidity of perfect travel. That’s exactly the type of innovation I want – full-scale, interactive, ‘living breathing’ models that allow project teams to truly understand how the system behaves through multiple changes. That said, if it’s too good it could put us all out of a job!

One of my favourites for simulation comes from UKRRIN at University of Birmingham. Called BRAVE, it’s a software I used in my master’s degree dissertation to simulate ETCS Level 3 on the Merseyrail network. It’s a great bit of software that works like simulators for timetable modelling; using it I was able to highlight the different failures in conventional and ETCS signalling systems and how the timetable would recover. I got to see its use for the Manchester Oxford Road Remodelling project too, where there’s a bit more complexity than my dissertation. It was great to see educational institutions influencing industry in innovative ways.

I love working in this industry and can’t wait to see what exciting developments come next. If you’re interested in sharing interesting progress or innovations with YRP or are interested in collaborating, contact us at corporaterelations@youngrailpro.com or our wider teams at hello@youngrailpro.com.

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RAILSTAFF SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

ARUP appoints John Fagan © UK Parliament

© Resonate

Resonate Group names new CFO

Arup has announced the appointment of John Fagan as global business leader for rail.

Digital railway specialist Resonate Group has appointed Carmen Hula as its chief finance officer, bringing extensive experience in to support the company's next phase of sustainable growth and innovation in digital rail technology.

In her new role, Carmen will oversee Resonate's financial strategy and operations, driving efficiencies, and supporting strategic investment as the business continues to expand its presence across the UK. Carmen has advised and supported organisations across all stages of growth, from startups to global banks, including PrePay Solutions, HSBC, and 101 Ways. With sector expertise across technology, banking, and AI, she brings a proven track record in building teams, implementing scalable processes, and fostering strategic relationships with investors, banks, auditors, and advisors.

Carmen said: "Resonate's mission and momentum reflect a clear vision for how intelligent, data-driven systems can reshape passenger experiences, strengthen the resilience of the network, and support a more sustainable future for UK transport. This next chapter of growth is an important moment for the business, and it is a privilege to contribute to building the financial and operational foundations that will help accelerate that transformation."

Blake Richmond, CEO at Resonate Group, added: "Carmen brings a wealth of financial and strategic expertise, with a strong record of supporting organisations through transformation and growth. Her experience across technology and financial services will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our business foundations and scale our impact in the rail technology sector."

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, John’s expertise spans operational planning, business case development, feasibility studies, front-end engineering, and technical leadership on complex rail programmes.

John has played a pivotal role in delivering high-impact projects including the TransPennine Route Upgrade and HS2, and has been a strategic advisor to the Department for Transport on its rail reform programme. He has also advised rail operators and owning groups on business planning and operating concession bids in the UK, Australia, Europe, and UAE. His leadership will be instrumental as Arup continues to shape the future of rail, partnering strategically with clients across the entire rail lifecycle to deliver rail projects that connect cities, drive economic growth, and support sustainable mobility.

John said: “Rail networks are a canvas for national transformation, creating jobs, stimulating industries and forming the backbone of economic development. I’m thrilled to lead our rail business into its next chapter of global growth, supporting our clients world-wide to reimagine what’s possible for rail: from how projects are funded to how they are designed, delivered, and maintained.

GTR creates safeguarding manager role GTR previously employed a suicide prevention manager, the first person to be appointed to this position across the UK rail network. This role has now been broadened in scope to encompass safeguarding of all passengers and staff.

New Safeguarding Manager Rebecca Butler brings more than 20 years of experience working with young people and adults facing challenges such as criminal and sexual exploitation, care experience, mental health needs, and disabilities.

In her previous role with Brighton & Hove City Council, Rebecca led three teams and was responsible for safeguarding, practice management, safeguarding audits, service accreditation, launching new services, and contributing to strategic boards to drive

© GTR

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has created a new role of safeguarding manager to support passengers and colleagues.

positive outcomes and meet national contract standards.

At GTR, Rebecca works with operational managers on a range of safeguarding issues including suicide prevention, county lines, homelessness, violence against women and girls and more.

Rebecca said: “I'm thrilled to have joined GTR as safeguarding manager. I’ve been truly inspired by the work I’m completing around the reports our staff submit every time they’ve worked to help a member of the public on the tracks or someone they’re concerned about, and the Life Saver Awards we present to our colleagues.

“The dedication to passenger and colleague care, both on board and at stations, is truly impressive. I’m hoping to build stronger collaboration between the different agencies, such as social services and the British Transport Police, to ensure we do everything we can to avert a personal crisis.”

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© RSSB

RSSB names new COO The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has appointed Joshua Fisher as its new chief operating officer.

Joshua brings extensive experience in digital transformation and operational leadership, having previously served as RSSB’s chief digital officer. This appointment marks a significant step in strengthening RSSB’s executive team as it continues to support the rail industry in delivering a safer, more efficient, and sustainable railway.

Mark Phillips, RSSB chief executive, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Joshua into the role of chief operating officer. Joshua’s deep understanding of our organisation and his proven ability to lead complex programmes will be invaluable as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“His commitment to collaboration and innovation reflects RSSB’s core values, and I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to deliver for the rail sector.”

Josh coommented: “I’m excited to take on this role and continue our journey of improvement

for our customers. At RSSB, we’ve shown how technology and data can unlock smarter, safer, and more sustainable decisions - and that work is never complete.

“My focus will be on keeping our members at the heart of everything we do, challenging the norm, and finding better ways to deliver value. By working together, we can set the benchmark for customer experience.”

Railway Mission welcomes new chaplain

Manuela brings many years of Christian leadership and a deep passion for missional service within local communities.

A graduate in Theology and Worship from the London School of Theology, she currently serves as an elder in her church, overseeing a range of ministries that support people of all ages and backgrounds. Her ministry is shaped by a strong commitment to holistic wellbeing – caring for mind, body, and soul.

She has extensive experience supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging moments. Manuela has served with Samaritans as a befriender, team leader, and trainer, and has also volunteered in prison chaplaincy, care homes, homeless outreach, and hospice care. Known for her warm and compassionate presence, she helps people feel heard, valued, and hopeful.

In her new role, Manuela is committed to reflecting Jesus’ servant leadership, responding to immediate needs while offering encouragement, dignity, and spiritual support to those she serves. Alongside her chaplaincy work, she will begin a Master’s in Practical Theology and Ministry later this year, further equipping her for this vital role. © Railway Mission

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© GTR

Paul brings with him a wealth of experience in rail, beginning his career as a driver for Heathrow Express, progressing to the control room and then into management roles. Before joining GTR, Paul worked for GTR’s sister company, GTS Rail, where he served as director of driver operations and safety for the Elizabeth Line.

During his time on the Elizabeth Line, Paul oversaw the training and delivery of a new fleet, the introduction of European Train Control System (ETCS) and Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling, including one of the largest driver recruitment campaigns in the UK. GTR Chief Operating Officer John Whitehurst, said: “Paul’s longstanding railway career is a fantastic addition to my team and the wider business. I’m confident Paul’s extensive knowledge of running operations on the Elizabeth Line will play an important part in GTR’s future success, bringing dynamic thinking and a fresh perspective to help us improve our services for our customers. I look forward to working with Paul on some exciting projects.”

Commenting on his appointment, Paul commented: “It’s a privilege to be part of the UK’s biggest

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Railway Mission has announced the appointment of Manuela Mai as its new chaplain for the North London area, strengthening the charity’s pastoral and spiritual support for railway staff and the wider rail community.

Paul Groves joins Govia Thameslink Railway Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has welcomed Paul Groves as its new train services director for Thameslink and Great Northern. Paul started working at GTR in October and has hit the ground running learning how the business operates.

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rail operator. I’ve already immersed myself in understanding the network in greater depth and have been actively visiting depots to connect with our dedicated teams who work so hard to deliver a safe and reliable service.

“I’m eager to collaborate with our industry partners and continue pushing ourselves to provide the best possible experience for the thousands of customers who travel with us daily.”

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RAILSTAFF SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

© Network Rail

New CEO at DFTO Alex Hynes has been appointed as the new chief executive of Department for Transport Operator Limited (DFTO).

With significant experience in both the rail industry and Department for Transport, his appointment will support the Government’s mission to bring together track and train and deliver a better service for passengers.

Before joining the civil service, Alex held senior positions at both ScotRail and Network Rail Scotland between 2017 and 2024. This followed his extensive career as managing director of Northern before the operator transferred into public ownership in 2020.

The handover will take place on 23 December as current CEO Robin Gisby’s fixed term contract comes to an end.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “Alex Hynes’s appointment will build on the achievements so far of smoothly bringing operators into public ownership and I’m confident that will continue going forward.

“I’d like to thank Robin Gisby for his work in effectively leading DFTO through challenging periods, all the way from the pandemic to the beginning of the transition

to Great British Railways. Robin had a major impact on the rail industry and he leaves an enduring legacy recognised by colleagues and passengers."

Alex commented: “It’s a privilege to be joining DFTO at such a pivotal moment.

I look forward to working with so many talented colleagues from across the publicly

owned train operating companies, Network Rail, the Department for Transport and the wider rail industry.

"Building on DFTO’s strong foundations and Robin’s achievements, my focus will be on delivering safe, reliable and efficient services for passengers, and helping to drive rail reform.”

WSP welcomes Sharif ORR chief executive to step down

Sharif brings extensive experience from senior client roles at AWE, Crossrail and TfL, most recently leading a +£5 billion programme in the Defence Nuclear sector.

He is an accredited NISTA Tier 1 Project Reviewer and actively contributes to The Institution of Civil Engineerssponsored Infrastructure Client Group, with a particular focus on Project 13 and enterprise alliances.

“I’m excited to join WSP and contribute to delivering some of the UK and Ireland’s most complex and transformative programmes,” said Sharif. “I look forward to working with colleagues and clients to drive innovation and create lasting value.”

Graeme Forbes, head of project, cost and commercial management (PMCM) at WSP, added: “Sharif’s appointment reflects our ambition to grow our major commissions capability and deliver exceptional outcomes for clients. His leadership experience and industry insight will be invaluable as we continue to shape and deliver some of the UK and Ireland’s most significant programmes from inception through to completion.”

© ORR

© WSP

Engineering and professional services firm WSP has announced the appointment of Sharif Narouz as major programme director for the UK and Ireland.

After two decades at the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) and seven years as Chief Executive John Larkinson has announced his decision to leave ORR at the end of April 2026.

He informed Chair Declan Collier a month ago of his decision to retire from executive roles and, following consultation, will leave at the end of April 2026. The chair and board will now start the process of recruiting a successor.

John said: “I feel exceptionally fortunate to have played my part in the wider industry and for 20 years at the ORR and particularly to be ORR’s chief executive.

“It has been a great privilege to lead ORR through what has at times been a challenging, but ultimately overwhelmingly rewarding, period as the rail and road sectors recovered from the lockdowns and as the rail sector is being reformed.

“There is never a perfect time to move on, but most of my tenure as chief executive has been against a backdrop of rail reform, and I feel that the introduction of the Railways Bill into Parliament is an

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appropriate time to depart.

“I want to give a new chief executive the opportunity and the time to continue the process of transforming the ORR into its new roles set out in the Railways Bill and support the creation of Great British Railways.

“I would like to thank Declan, the board, my leadership team, and all the staff at ORR for their help and support over the last seven years.”

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DfT names new chief scientific adviser

Rail Freight Group (RFG) has appointed Ralph Goldney to its board and confirmed the re-appointment of Richard Hastings, further strengthening its breadth of expertise and industry insight.

Aston University’s Professor Patricia Thornley has been appointed as the new chief scientific adviser (CSA) for the Department for Transport (DfT).

Ralph Goldney of Railfreight Consulting was formally elected to the board for the first time at RFG’s Annual General Meeting yesterday on 12 November. Richard Hastings, head of logistics at Nestlé UK & Ireland, was also re-elected at the meeting.

Each brings extensive experience and a strong commitment to promoting the role of rail freight in the UK’s transport and logistics sector.

Ralph has spent the past 18 years working in rail freight, initially supporting GB Railfreight in mobilising for its Metronet contract before establishing his own business, Railfreight Consulting.

An engineer by training, he has led numerous projects for RSSB and Network Rail, covering topics from locomotive tractive effort to simplified signalling and End of Train devices. Ralph combines

technical and commercial expertise and is passionate about advancing rail freight’s contribution to the UK economy.

Richard is a logistics professional with more than 40 years of experience, including 33 with Nestlé. He leads a team of 260 across Nestlé’s transport and warehouse operations and has driven major sustainability initiatives, including switching all warehouse operations to renewable energy, replacing diesel with renewable low-carbon fuels, and promoting greater use of rail. His innovative approach has helped overcome challenges such as loading-gauge constraints, enabling a significant shift from road to rail.

Maggie Simpson OBE, RFG director general, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Ralph to the Board and to confirm Richard’s re-appointment.

They each bring a great deal of experience, expertise and new perspectives on the rail freight sector. Their insights will be invaluable as we continue to make the case for rail freight growth.”

© Aston University

Rail Freight Group welcomes new board member

Professor Thornley is a highly respected leader in the field of sustainable energy, recognised for her extensive contributions to advancing low carbon innovation and clean technologies. She is currently based at Aston University, where she is based at the Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute. She will join the DfT early next year, where she will be based four days a week, spending one day a week at the University.

CSAs perform an independent challenge function to their department, ensuring that science and engineering evidence and advice is robust, relevant and high quality, and that there are mechanisms in place to ensure that policy making is underpinned by this.

The professor brings three decades of experience spanning bioenergy, clean transport, and negative emissions. Her leadership of major national initiatives such as the Supergen Bioenergy Hub and the Clean Maritime Policy Unit reflects her ability to connect cutting edge research with real world impact.

Alongside this, she plays an influential role in government science advice as deputy chair of the Department for Transport’s Scientific Advisory Council and as a member of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Science Advisory Council.

Jo Shanmugalingam, permanent secretary at the DfT, said: “Science, innovation and technology are at the heart of how we're modernising transport for today’s world.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Patricia as our new chief scientific adviser. Her experience in research and innovation will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our science capability.”

© RSSB

Chris Burchell named RSSB Chair The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has appointed Chris Burchell as its new chair, effective from 1 January 2026. Chris brings 30 years of leadership experience across Britain’s rail and energy sectors, with a proven track record in managing complex, regulated infrastructure.

Chris began his career in the railway industry, progressing from area production manager at Railtrack in the late 1990s to senior leadership roles including managing director of Southern Railway and later Arriva UK Trains. Over two decades in rail operations has given Chris deep expertise in running safety-critical, customerfacing infrastructure at scale.

He said: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair at RSSB. This is a pivotal moment

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for our industry as it enters a new phase of change and all the opportunities that brings.

We need to embrace it across all aspects of the system —economic, technological, cultural, and operational—to help navigate the sector towards a stronger, resilient future.

“My focus at RSSB will be on helping the rail industry deliver practical improvements that matter to colleagues and customers: safer, more reliable services that earn trust and support sustainable growth.”

Mark Phillips, RSSB chief executive commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Chris as chair. His extensive experience in leading complex, safety-critical organisations across rail and energy brings a unique perspective to RSSB. “Chris understands the importance of collaboration and innovation, subjects at the

heart of RSSB’s role. I look forward to working closely with him as we continue supporting the rail sector in delivering a safer, more efficient and sustainable railway.”

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