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Saturday 14 Jun 2025

Network Rail employees named in Birthday Honours list

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National

Two Network Rail employees have been recognised for their outstanding contributions in HM The King’s Birthday Honours list announced today. In addition, Steve Scrimshaw, who joined Network Rail as a Non-Executive Director last year, received a CBE.

Donna Mitchell, Senior Media Relations Manager in the National Communications team has received a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to safety for Young People. Every hour, someone risks their life trespassing on the railway-often unaware of the dangers. For over a decade, Donna Mitchell has led powerful, data-driven public facing campaigns to tackle this issue. One standout is Harrison’s Story, created with the family of 11-year-old Harrison Ballantyne, whose tragic death inspired a film that reached over two million viewers and helped to cut child trespass by 62% and overall incidents by 24% in targeted areas.

Donna’s influence goes beyond awareness. She has united rail organisations to share safety materials and empower frontline staff, driving systemic change. Her work has earned national awards and widespread praise for her compassion, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to saving lives.

On being named in the Honours, Donna Mitchell said: “On getting this news I experienced a wave of emotion: surprise, gratitude and a little bit of embarrassment – mainly because I feel a little underserving of being singled out for an honour when everything I’ve achieved would not have been possible without the help of others. It is also a bit discomforting being the subject rather than author of a press release! This recognition reflects the collective effort of my colleagues who have enabled and supported me in spreading the rail safety message far and wide, and of people like Liz Ballantyne—who lost her son Harrison—who selflessly share their stories time and again to ensure that others do not suffer as they have. I’m thankful to each and every one of them and am proud for our work to be recognised in this way.”

Mike Mitchell, Field Technical Support Engineer in the Route Services function has also received a BEM for his contribution to society and his voluntary work supporting young people promoting careers in STEM and the railway. Alongside his 35-year career at Network Rail, he founded Hull Kung Fu along with his wife, helping hundreds of young people overcome challenges like drug misuse and mental health issues through martial arts, education, and career training. His efforts have led to reduced railway crime, suicide prevention awareness, and inspiring success stories, including students who now work in policing or run their own businesses.

He also launched Hull and East Yorkshire Villagers at War to preserve local history and educate schoolchildren, and more recently founded Developing Minds to introduce young people to engineering and railway telecoms through free programming and electronics courses. Mike’s dedication has empowered communities, preserved heritage, and opened doors for the next generation.

Mike Mitchell said: “I really wasn’t expecting this, but I’m so grateful to everyone who’s supported our voluntary organisations over the years. It’s been amazing to see how people’s lives have changed for the better during my 23 years of volunteering — and even more inspiring to watch them go on to help others too.”

Steve Scrimshaw, former Executive Director UK&I for Siemens Energy who was appointed as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Network Rail in 2024, has been awarded Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to British manufacturing, transport, and the green transition to net zero. Starting his career as a 16-year-old apprentice, Steve has spent the past 45 years shaping the UK’s transport and energy sectors. Widely respected for his integrity, compassion, and commitment to diversity and community, Steve’s legacy is one of professional excellence and lasting social impact.

Commenting on being awarded a CBE, Steve Scrimshaw said: “Firstly, huge congratulations go to my Network Rail colleagues, Donna and Mike, for this very well deserved recognition of their fantastic achievements. Reflecting on my personal journey from a 16-year-old apprentice at the Parsons Works in Newcastle to today receiving this incredible accolade, I am truly humbled. This honour is a testament to the countless colleagues, partners, friends and incredible businesses who have helped along the way.”

Sir Andrew Haines, Chief Executive of Network Rail, added: “I’d like to pass on huge congratulations to Donna and Mike on being awarded their BEMs — a truly fitting recognition of the remarkable impact they’ve had on communities across the country. Their dedication and achievements are greatly appreciated.

“I’m delighted that Steve Scrimshaw’s outstanding contributions to the transport and energy sectors have been acknowledged. His work has left a lasting legacy, and this honour is a testament to that.”

The Royal Honour nominations mark the extraordinary contributions and service of people across the UK. These honours celebrate those who go above and beyond, making a lasting impact on their communities and the railway industry.