Recruitment
“I would to nominate my dad for the Lifetime Achievement award
Started his railway career 28th April 1969 as a box boy at London Cannon Street, in 1972 went to Strood to become a trainee signalman and then went to Abbey Wood to become a crossing keeper, in 1974 became a guard at Plumstead, 1977 moved to Waterloo as a second man, got passed out as a driver in 1982 and moved to Slade Green depot in 1983, 1987 moved to Victoria depot
Joined Thameslink in 1999 at Blackfriars depot and in 2001 became a driver trainer, in 2004 passed his A1 assessor course and then moved to Orpington depot in 2014m he plans to retire 28th April 2023 and he would of completed 54 years on the railway.
That is some service. My dad has worked so hard over years, and he encouraged me to join the railway way when I was 17, 22 years later I am still living dream together with my dad“
“Ralph has dedicated over 50 years to the railway and 40 of them as a driver!
Still as enthusiastic today as if he was on his first day.
One of the railways great characters and a pleasure to have spent 11 years on his shift at Blackfriars
He has trained and assessed lots of future drivers.“
“Ralph Cooper has not just dedicated his life, as soon as he became of age to start his career with the Railway to become not only a true Railwayman with a passion for the profession, but most importantly a people's person who wholeheartedly always shares his time with everyone and especially those in need whether it's only for a brief chat or to pass on his extensive knowledge. Driver Ralph Cooper is a true Gentleman with more than fifty years working in a Railway industry.“
“Ralph is the best. Been on railway 45 yrs. I believe.
Such a giving person. He brings fruit and vegetables in from his allotment for the drivers.
A driving instructor who is brilliant and not judgmental. A propa bloke and friend of everyone. He passes on his vast knowledge freely. I have never heard Ralph speak ill of anyone. He is the first to offer empathy and support if he hears bad news befalling a colleague. Just the best.“
“I just wanted to say a personal thank you to you and your excellent team! I was really pleased to be awarded the Highly Commended award on Saturday night and can't thank you all enough. I have really been grateful for your backing and have been heavily supported by everyone at Rail-Media during my first year of trading and this topped it off. I was very proud to receive the nomination and making the top three was incredible, I believe strongly that this is down to the team I have around me in advance-TRS but also the external teams such as Rail Media that have offered me advice and direction whenever called upon. I must offer a big thanks to Lianne for her kind words on the night, I was really impressed with the whole evening and think she deserves a big pat on the back (and some throat sweets). I must also thank Asif and Paul for their continued backing and availability on the phone whenever we are in need of deadlines and advice. I look forward to working with you all for many years to come, Thanks again,”
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