Recruitment
“I have known Karen for quite a few years now (I think since 2014). With the issues on the rails since COVID travelling by train can be at time nerve-wracking and stressful. I am an academic who works at the University of Bristol as a Lecturer in the History of Art, and during term time the commute is almost daily and often at odd hours. There have been strikes, technical problems and accidents almost every week. Karen has been a life-saver over the years: she is without doubt the most friendly, loving and kind human being I have ever encountered at that station or any other on the rail network. And this is saying something - because the Neath station staff generally are all wonderful.
I want to nominate Karen not only because as customers my husband (Alex Thomas) and I both adore her and look forward to seeing her everyday, but also because when I mentioned this to others at the station, they were absolutely on board and provided all the details for this. Karen does not know that I am nominating her - but the others do, as they love her too.
She has had a huge impact on the morale of that station - both staff and travellers, and given what a difficult time it has been with the rail strikes that is really saying something. Karen always finds customers the best ticket, she gives advice, and goes out of her way to make sure we feel as safe as possible, and get where we're going! I can't recommend her enough for this award. And, I would also like to say a big thank you to others at the station, who I have got to know over the years (I have not managed to get everyone's names down, so it is my bad if I have forgotten anyone: Chris Murawski, Ian Jones and Michelle Evans.) This is an exemplary station and is proof that nothing beats a station with staff who are dedicated to the railway!“
“Thank you for a wonderful evening- words really cannot express how humbled I am to have won, ( yes, I cried all the way home.) The entertainment and meal were first class and the whole theme was amazing , wonderful to see so many people dressed up. As for my wonderful prize money, how will I spend it ? Two ways of spending it, this is how much patience I have , I purchased a new kitchen 11 years ago and its still in the boxes as my husband hasn't fitted it yet so hopefully this may spur him on......... Secondly I am a cartoonist and I help a lot of charities and now I have the funds to actually print some cartoons on to Christmas cards, which I can hopefully sell and raise some money for The Greyhound Trust ( My local one Perry Barr) and of course The Railway Children Fund too all being well. So thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart x Best wishes Simone”
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