The RailStaff Awards 2024

Zoe Hemes

Said the following about Tim Lavington:

“Mention the name Tim Lavington to almost anyone working for Southern and you will more than likely be met with responses about cafes or be told what a lovely man he is. But most of all you will hear how truly brilliant he is at training. He is patient and calm and has a way of teaching that feels unique. He adapts to each individual so that they become relaxed and calm. He has built up confidence and self-esteem in many who have lost it.

Those who have been lucky to be trained by him are full of praise for his techniques. Many say he has a way of explaining anything to anyone no matter how complicated that thing may be. He takes time to answer even the most insignificant of questions and trainee drivers are very grateful to him for that. If Tim is training a new group of drivers he often sets up a WhatsApp group so that they can contact him anytime to ask questions they have as well as discuss training with each other. I am told this has been extremely helpful to them. This is just one of many examples of glowing feedback I have heard said about him.

Tim’s dedication to his work sets him apart by miles, he spends many hours helping colleagues new and old and from any department in this company. He is highly respected among staff for his dedication and incredible knowledge. He always makes time to help those who ask for it.

Tim is full of determination to deliver excellence in all he does, going not just the extra mile but many extra miles both inside and outside of working hours. His commitment to safety goes above all else and he has written many papers and notices on this including The Restrained Driving Technique. He is determined to make a difference in that area.

He always looks smart and presents himself professionally at all times, taking pride in himself and what he does.

Colleagues will open up to Tim as he has gained much trust and respect. He has saved many railwaymen's careers through his methods and understanding. Often drivers will request to be assigned to him for refresher courses and/or one to one assessments.

In my own experience: I was put on a splitting and attaching course with him almost 13 years ago when I had just started my railway career. I had felt quite nervous at first but Tim very soon put me at ease. I recall feeling that that training day had been well above my expectations and that I was taught as an individual. Above all I never felt rushed while being taught by him. More recently I was given the opportunity to shadow him on a 313 traction conversion course and I was blown away by how well the training course was delivered. His care for other employees development extended to my own that week and I felt valued and cared for throughout the duration of the course.

Tim has been nominated at the RailStaff awards at two previous events, once for driver of the year and twice for trainer of the year (and twice for very good reasons). Although he made it to the finals on both he didn’t receive an award at either event. I really hope that this year can be his year. He has dedicated over 30 years of invaluable services to a high standard on the railway. I feel Tim is a role model not just to other training staff but to all staff and I can honestly say I have never met anyone as enthusiastic as Tim. He is an absolute credit to the rail industry and Southern are extremely lucky to have him working for them.

I firmly believe that if any of the judges were to spend just one day with Tim there would be no doubt in their minds that he is absolutely deserving to win this award and be named Trainer of the Year.“

Dominic Charlwood

Said the following about Tim Lavington:

“I work with him and his dedication to the job is second to none. He is very knowledgeable and always very friendly, polite and approachable. All round top guy!“

Heidi Sly

Said the following about Tim Lavington:

“Tim is an excellent trainer and truly nice person with it. You will never find Tim in a bad mood or unwilling to do something. He delivers his training with such passion and has nurtured many hundreds of Drivers over the years. Good luck Tim!“

Liz Lumber

Said the following about Tim Lavington:

“I have known Tim for over 18 years in a variety of professional capacities. I have always been impressed by his continual enthusiasm and desire to do the best that he can regardless of the hand that he has been dealt. I cannot praise him enough and truly believe that he has found his calling in life and this is why he has such passion for all that he delivers. Well done Tim.“