​Surprise award for dedicated Southern rail maintenance man Dave

A Southern rail maintenance worker was left speechless after receiving a surprise award for always being on hand to help a community rail group.

Dave Linnell, 58, was presented with a framed certificate and a bunch of flowers by the Marshlink Community Rail Partnership (CRP) for his “exceptional contribution” to their various projects at different stations.

Whether it be filling planters at Winchelsea, fixing flower troughs to the ground at Appledore or refreshing art displays at Rye, Dave has always been there to help.

Marshlink CRP Chair Kevin Boorman said: “We were very pleased to be able to award a certificate of thanks to Dave. He has been fantastic, helping us change our displays at Rye station regularly, and supporting our work at our other stations. Nothing is ever too much trouble for him. Dave is a great asset for Southern, and his work allows us to reach all of those who use the Marshlink.”

Polegate resident Dave, 58, has worked on the railway for 21 years and was presented with the certificate at Marshlink CRP’s recent AGM. He said: “What a surprise! I was speechless and really touched to receive the recognition. They’re an amazing bunch and do wonders for our unmanned stations. I’m happy to muck in and help as much as I can.”

Southern's Brighton and East Coast Area Manager Graham Thrower said: “Dave is a dedicated and hard-working member of our maintenance team, who is well-deserving of this recognition.”

The Marshlink CRP is part of the Sussex CRP, which works to connect local communities with their railway. The Marshlink line is a section of railway between Hastings and Ashford, extending to Eastbourne. For more information about the work of the Marshlink CRP, visit https://www.sussexcrp.org/line/marshlink-line/