The RailStaff Awards 2024

Nominations for Train Driver of the Year

Matthew Prior

Said the following about Freddie Marnu - **HAS LEFT**:

“Freddie Marnu is a driver for Virgin Trains based at London Euston. His attitude and approach to his work not only makes him a model driver, but a model employee of Virgin Trains. His unfaltering positiveness is exactly what makes him an ideal candidate for Driver of the Year. You only have to walk through Euston station with him to see the positive impact he has on his colleagues. Freddie always comes to work with a smile on his face and spreads cheer amongst everyone he interacts with. Freddie is always immaculately dressed, taking pride in his appearance and his job, and he is a role model to others.

When Freddie first joined us, he went above and beyond during his route learning by making his own route maps which he shared and still shares with his colleagues which is excellent. They really are works of art and incredibly detailed! Freddie is often praised by our Resource Controllers for being exceptionally helpful, particularly during times of disruption which is something he always does without hesitation.

Freddie is not just a lovely person, though. He is an excellent train driver too! A good example, amongst many, was seen earlier in the summer when Freddie’s train failed late at night near Penkridge. He had two managers on their way out to his train, coming from two different directions. When one manager arrived at the train, a miscommunication between the signaller and Control meant he was given authorisation to proceed towards Wolverhampton. Freddie knew something wasn’t right as he had received conflicting information that another manager was on his way to the train. Freddie therefore refused to move his train until he had clarified the situation and the whereabouts of the second manager.

Freddie’s decision was validated when the second manager was seen walking around the corner through the darkness towards his train in the middle of the track. Freddie's diligence and attention to detail saved a potentially serious incident occurring.

We are very proud of Freddie and feel recognition at this level would be very well deserved.“