Former Northern Rail manager receives MBE

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A former Northern Rail manager, who dedicated fifty years to the railway industry, has received an MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.

Phil Thickett, 65 of Darlington, who was recognised for ‘services to the railway industry’, recently retired from his position as Area Operations Manager at Northern, but still works for the rail operator as a consultant.

Phil was nominated by Northern thanks to his overwhelming commitment to the railway industry and his willingness to help and support others, both inside and outside the company.

Phil has mentored many school children, on a voluntary basis, to introduce them to the world of work, has supported countless projects and charity events, including those outside of his area.

Ian Bevan, Managing Director of Northern Rail, comments:

“We are incredibly proud of Phil and delighted he has received this fantastic honour. He has helped develop so many of our employees, in both their daily duties and further education aspirations and is a true ambassador for Northern and the rail industry.

“Phil’s kind and unassuming nature has a positive effect on everyone he comes into contact with and makes him a pleasure to work alongside.”

Phil began his career as an apprentice in 1961 and worked his way up the career ladder to Northern’s Area Operations Manager, where he managed more than 700 staff and more than 1,200 trains every day across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, until his retirement last May.

Phil comments: “I couldn’t believe it when I was told the news about the MBE.

“I have seen many changes to the railway industry over the last fifty years and for me it was about embracing those changes and providing a service for thousands of people every day.”

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