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Monday 15 Jun 2026

Two Network Rail colleagues honoured in The King’s Birthday Honours 2026

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National

Two Network Rail colleagues – Esther Lagden and Tyron Woodford – have been awarded British Empire Medals (BEM) in The King’s Birthday Honours 2026, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to their communities.

• Esther Lagden has been recognised for her dedicated voluntary service supporting young people.
• Tyron Woodford has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to inclusion, public service and community support.

Esther Lagden, a Programme Manager in Network Rail’s Eastern Capital Delivery team, has transformed the York St John Ambulance Cadet unit over the past four years. Under her leadership, scores of young people have developed confidence, leadership qualities and life saving skills. Her cadets have delivered hundreds of hours of first aid across York – including supporting high-profile events such as the Remembrance Parade and York Races – while also engaging with hundreds of local residents to raise awareness of CPR.

Esther said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive this award, which was totally unexpected. My work at Network Rail on major projects and programmes has shown me how vital public safety is, and being able to share that experience through rail safety education with our Cadets and Badgers has been a real privilege. Watching young people grow in confidence and learn skills that truly make a difference is incredibly motivating. I would like to recognise the exceptional commitment of my Network Rail colleagues, fellow volunteers and our Cadets, who day in, day out do incredible things to support our community.”

Tyron Woodford, a Planning Assistant on Network Rail’s Western route, has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to inclusion, public service and community support. As a founding member of Network Rail’s disability confidence staff network CanDo, Tyron has played a leading role in promoting inclusion across the organisation. Outside work, he has also demonstrated remarkable dedication to helping others by making more than 350 blood donations since 2012, volunteering with his local police force, and raising thousands of pounds for charities such as the National Autistic Society.

Tyron said: “I was surprised and overwhelmed when I received news of this honour. I really enjoy helping others both in and out of work, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to give something back.”

Jeremy Westlake, CEO of Network Rail, said: “Esther and Tyron exemplify the very best of Network Rail.

"Their commitment to public service goes far beyond their day jobs, making a real, lasting difference. From supporting young people to championing inclusion and participation, their contributions to the community reflect the values we stand for as an organisation.

"We are incredibly proud to see them recognised in The King’s Birthday Honours.”