The RailStaff Awards 2024

Nominations for Apprentice of the Year

Robert Lloyd

Said the following about James Mather:

“James Mather has recently completed his final year of his apprenticeship in Engineering Maintenance. He has been at Freightliner, based at Crewe Vehicle Maintenance Facility, throughout this time, getting a wide experience of locomotives.

He has developed rapidly and shows a knowledge of Class 90 locos that far outreaches his years. He is well integrated into the team and is well respected amongst his peers young and old alike. James is always keen to help out and learn new tasks completing them to a high standard.

James often stays on past his time to ensure the completion of tasks and learning. He also enjoys sharing his enthusiasm with Work Experience candidates, with many often asking to return or enquiring about possible apprenticeships.

James also volunteers his spare time at the Crewe Heritage Centre where he is currently rebuilding a Class 87 locomotive. During the recent recruitment for apprentices at Crewe, there were some standout performers who showed a great knowledge which they attested was due to the time they had spent alongside James at the Heritage Centre.

A very worthy candidate for Apprentice of the Year.“