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Thursday 19 Jan 2006

1,200 YEARS OF SERVICE RECOGNISED

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A staggering 1,200 years of service has been chalked up by 38 employees on Network Rail’s London North Eastern - an average of 32 years each. Their loyalty and exceptional service was recognised at an event held in York.  Tributes were paid by Route Director Dyan Crowther, who thanked them for their contribution to an industry, which works most effectively through teamwork, commitment and comradeship. Twins Vic and Keith Long began their railway careers on the same day, 25 April 1960 and worked together for 15 years as signallers in the former Leeds power signal box.  Although Vic retired first, his twin Keith said he wanted his brother to try it out before deciding to follow in his footsteps.  Both agree they won’t miss getting up at 5am. Three retired signallers, Rex Beech (Wickenby Box, Lincoln), Raymond Mardell (Rectory Box, Nottingham – Grantham) and Alan Burkitt (Skegness Box) each marked 49 years service.