Veronica Mikurova

Said the following about James Dobson:

“James has been a constant driving force behind the LGBTQ+ Network at Avanti West Coast for the last couple of years. James has achieved great investment from the company and partnering organisations into the Pride train. The Pendolino has been wrapped in the Pride flag; however, James has continued his work and this year has had the interior of the train redecorated with important messages for our customers and colleagues, including:

- Reasons why we celebrate Pride

- The meaning behind the different Pride flag colours

- Information about hate crime

James has worked with Angel Trains and Alstom to secure funding for this important project and has showed fantastic communications skills to get this over the line. It has been a great example of working collaborative across the industry and will reach thousands of our colleagues and customers every year!

He has also continued to lobby the business to provide support to colleagues and has once again secured funding for colleagues to take part in Birmingham Pride 2022.

James shows incredible dedication to his role and, despite the fact that he has been under immense pressure in his day job, has continued to put tremendous effort into his role and deserved the recognition.“

Paul Austin

Said the following about James Dobson:

“I want to nominate James for all the work he’s done within Avanti West Coast. He helped set up and guide the LGBTQ+ Steering Group to what it’s become today, as strong Employee Network.

I’ve had the pleasure to work with James on a number of LGBTQ+ projects within Avanti, most notably the Progress Pride Train.

The final piece of work has just been completed and Pendolino Progress has returned to service after a major refurbishment and also a special and unique ‘Live Proud’ interior.

James always gives 1000% in everything he does and with so much genuine passion for Avanti, the railway and especially anything LGBTQ+ related.“