RailStaff Awards Success for Northern

Northern, part of the Arriva group, is celebrating the results of this year’s RailStaff Awards.

The highlight of this was victory for the Blackpool team in the Rail Team of the Year Award.

Earlier this year fellow driver John Burrows, suffered a life-changing stroke. Whilst John was in hospital, a leak at his house ruined his kitchen.

Determined for John not to return to such devastation, the team of drivers, conductors and station staff repaired and renovated his house, installing a new kitchen, fitting new carpets and buying new furniture.

This was not the first time the team have been recognised for their team spirit and kind heartedness, having already won the Halo Award at this year’s Pride of Northern Awards, Northern’s internal recognition celebration.

Representing the Blackpool team at the awards were Stuart Briggs, James Brennan, Duncan Bates, Lee Nuttall, John Partington, Mike Wylie, Graham Platt and Andy Matthews.

Newcastle driver Ian Palmer also received Highly Commended Train Driver of the Year. Ian received this incredible accolade for his actions in recognising and preventing a potential suicide situation.

Other Northern finalists recognised at the ceremony included Vivienne Rowley, Nicola Panchoo, Neil Roe, Tomas Bissett, Sammie Kay, Keith Adams, Dean Taylor, Aaron Dunbar, Craig Newton, Michael Atherton, Graham Large, Michael Brady and Danny Kirkman.

Alex Hynes, Managing Director for Northern, commented “Thank you to RailMedia for organising a wonderful event, and congratulations to all the winners. It is very pleasing to see our Northern employees commended for their work, and in particular the Blackpool team for the tremendous support they gave to John after his illness.”