ASLEFJOURNAL MAY 2018 The magazine of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers & Firemen Wales on the Rails

Inside this issue: A special report on the state of the railway in Wales The train drivers ’ plus join us for the big march and rally in London on Saturday 12 May union since 1880

GS Mick Whelan

ASLEFJOURNAL MAY 2018 We will not be shy The magazine of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers & Firemen

8 Mick: ‘Companies have to stick to agreements’ WANT to thank our members at Acton Town for the unity and solidarity shown in 4 I the action taken over the abrogation of recognised and agreed process and procedure and News virtual blackmail of a colleague into another role. This is not, as misrepresented in the press, about l Jonathan Doughty and the Metro Meanderer 4 defending the indefensible, and poor safety of the l Lilian Greenwood says it’s high time this 5 line, but ensuring the methodology for dealing with country had a national transport strategy such issues is the agreed and tested one. We are balloting elsewhere on imposition rostering and l Andy Jones reports on a trip to Spain to 6 hope that common sense prevails because we will remember those who died at Tarancón not be shy in responding when companies refuse to 11 honour agreements and operate in bad faith. l DfT’s claims are just ‘smoke and mirrors’ 7 We attended the STUC and Welsh Labour Party l Mind the pay gap but train drivers look good 8 conferences at the end of April, speaking out on issues – such as freight, DOO, infrastructure, and affordable housing – that impact on our members, Features their families and futures. The decision on the future of the East Coast franchise will be made Key Worker: Colin Smith looks back on 10-11 l soon. We know what we would like to see but, life as a train driver, district organiser, whatever happens, the uncertainty for those rugby player (and coach) and Everton fan employed and who use it must end. l Men of Harlech: Brian Corbett, Andy 12-13 12-13 Trade unions are internationalist and, while it is Hudd, Ian Thompson and David Jones right to challenge countries that use chemical weapons, we must be sure of the facts and a vote of l Stephen Austin on GWR; Ian Thompson on 14 Parliament, before taking action, is part of the ATW; Wayne Hurlow on the Heart of Wales democratic process. The Prime Minister may think l What life was like on an ambulance 14-15 this is her ‘Maggie and the Falklands’ moment but train during the Great War 100 years ago being a puppet of the US, and staying silent about Yemen, is not a good look. We are gearing up for our annual assembly of Regulars delegates when members analyse what we are doing and create the policies, based on items from l Branch News and 100 Years of Union 16-17 branches, that drive our agenda. We have 176 14 branches and will have 100 representatives present l Obituaries 19 – it is worth reminding each other that we carry out l Letters and Classified Advertisements 20-21 the policy of the trade union – and look forward to the Young Members’ fringe and their growing voice l Last Word: As the sun comes out it’s time 22 in ASLEF. It is appropriate that AAD is in Liverpool to put up your feet and read a good book where we will say goodbye to District 3 Organiser l On Track, Prize Crossword, ASLEF’s 23 Colin Smith and thank him for his long service to Legal Services and Change of Address the union and its members and the movement as a whole. He will be greatly missed but I am sure Andy Hourigan will fill those large shoes and make the The ASLEF Journal is published every month by: role his own. We are replacing an Evertonian with a ASLEF, 77 St John Street, London, EC1M 4NN Man City fan but this has not seemed to impact on Tel: 020 7324 2400 l email: [email protected] their abilities in the past (joke!) and wish both of website: www.aslef.org.uk l twitter: @ASLEFUnion them the very best. 22 Finally, I hope to see you at the TUC’s march and rally in London on 12 May. Please come and join us! EdItoR Mick Whelan l dESIGNER Michael Cronin l PRINtER College Hill Press, London, SW19 4HE AdvERtISING ASLEF Journal, 77 St John Street, London, EC1M 4NN. Contact Keith Richmond on 020 7324 2407 Yours fraternally or [email protected] l ClASSIFIEd AdS [email protected] or call 020 7324 2400. The acceptance of a Mick Whelan, general secretary display or classified advertisement does not necessarily imply endorsement of that product or service by ASLEF ChANGE oF AddRESS Please post your details to ASLEF, 77 St John Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1M 4NN

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 3 News Fog on the Tyne is all mine, all mine

SLEF’s Tyne & trains, such as the Wear Metro stock transfer line A branch typically used for secretary, Jonathan empty coaching Doughty, and stock.’ colleagues helped ‘Michael Darling raise £6,500 for good and I took the BLS causes when they group around the the BlS: ‘the Metro gave 128 passengers a system, going into Meanderer tour was special tour of the many different sidings, led by 4060’ light rail system avoiding lines, talking serving Newcastle, them through the on day to day Gateshead, history of the system, operations.’ Sunderland and and taking them to l The Branch Line Tyneside. Passengers – places where usual years as a train driver the North Tyneside Hazel Mitchell, Jonny Society, founded in all members of the passenger service isn’t that the train has Steam Railway Doughty, Michael 1955, is the largest Branch Line Society – allowed,’ said come back cleaner Association. Kev Darling and Simon amateur railway study got ‘a complex tour of Jonathan. ‘It was a than it was when it Adlam of the BLS said: Whitelaw who did an group in the UK. the Metro, completing very enjoyable day for went out!’ ‘We are indebted to excellent job looking Membership costs £12 a series of unusual both staff and The trip raised the professionalism after us and liaising per year and you can moves not normally passengers and it’s £6,500 for the St John and dedication of the with control to ensure visit the website at visited by passenger the first time in my 15 Ambulance, Mind and on board team of there was no impact www.branchline.uk

Join us on the march QUOTE… ‘Forgive me if I do not join in with the The TUC, which represents 5.5 ‘We’re marching because comparisons between Russia and million workers in 49 trade real wages are still lower than Nazism. They are not accurate. Nazism unions in Britain, is organising before the financial collapse was a hateful ideology that sought the a march and rally in London of 2008,’ said Simon. ‘Because death of millions. We are not dealing on Saturday 12 May to three million workers are with that in today’s Russia.’ – Tom demand a new deal for stuck on zero hour contracts, Tugenhadt , Conservative MP for working people. ASLEF in agency work, and in low Come and join Mick and Tonbridge & Malling activists are invited to join GS paid, and artificial, self- Simon on the march and rally …UNQUOTE Mick Whelan, AGS Simon employment. Because Weller, executive committee hardworking public servants and despair.’ members and district haven’t had a proper pay rise Mick said: ‘Please come TWEETS OF THE MONTH organisers on Victoria for eight years. Because our and join us on the march, and embankment, between NHS is at breaking point. And at the rally, to show solidarity A concept doomed to failure from a Hungerford Bridge and because years of cuts have with every other worker in bunch of millionaires, pushed by a Blackfriars Bridge, at 11am. led to poverty, homelessness Britain.’ failed leader of a party he left in ruins, a smokescreen purely designed to try and split Give me Monet – SHARKS CIRCLING FIRST the Labour Party. Mr Clegg supported & FirstGroup, which runs Great Western, tPE, hull propped up a disastrous Tory coalition of that’s what I want trains and South West trains, as well as Greyhound doom. I don’t fear any ‘new party’. coaches in the States, is fending off a takeover bid Angela Rayner by the aggressive private equity group Apollo. First, from its head office in Aberdeen, described At least these people are honest that the bid as ‘opportunistic’. the sole aim of a new party isn’t to win power – they know it never would – but just ANGIE, YOU CAN’T SAY WE NEVER TRIED to keep the Tories in power. AGS Simon Weller went head to head with Angie Owen Jones doll of GtR on BBC Sussex last month on Southern Rail’s recent – and indecently hasty – pledge to Hundreds attend Westminster service recruit more women to work on the railway. A in memory of union legend Rodney The Gare Saint-Lazare , painted in common aim, of course, but we’ve heard it all before Bickerstaffe, with speeches by @johnprescott 1877 by Claude Monet, is on display and Simon won the bout on points. @DavePrentis @jeremycorbyn at the National Gallery until 29 July @MPeakeOfficial as part of the Monet & Architecture our hip, hot and happening black Alan Jones exhibition. It is one of four surviving baseball cap will keep the sun out canvases – ‘interior landscapes’ with of your eyes. £5 (inc p&p); email Strong trade unions are the key to smoke from the engines treated like [email protected] or visit our delivering decent pay and conditions. clouds in the sky – of the station in online shop at www.aslef.org.uk Finn Brennan the 8th arrondissement of Paris.

4 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 News

Time for national transport strategy off the Rails

ILIAN GREENWOOD, MEL THORLEY , Longsight legend, reflects L Labour MP for on the way things were: ‘You’ve done your Nottingham South, and rules, passed out on basic traction, the chair of the House of Commons doctor gives you the all clear. You’re Transport Select Committee, has presented with a detailed sectional called for a national strategy for appendix to aid your route learning, on transport. Writing in Politics First which you are then tested, and you sign your magazine, the former Shadow card. You get a glossary of terms covering all the railway Transport Secretary said: ‘The UK’s speak you will encounter, whatever the accent or dialect. So transport infrastructure is set to what’s the problem, driver? I signed the Potts which meant, benefit from investment worth as a starter link driver, I could drive from Cheadle Hulme via several tens of billions of pounds. Macclesfield to Stoke where I would finish and start my But is that going to produce the lilian: Chris Grayling ‘failed to journeys in the down bay. One evening, not long into my outcomes which the government give straight answers’ new career, I approached Stoke to see a unit already in the wants – rebalancing the bay, and was being signalled the up main platform. I ran in economy; enhancing government to improve its and brought my unit to a careful stand, on a rising brake, productivity; better reliability and understanding of costs and value, and lowered my window to greet the platform staff. less congestion; improving global better manage large complex “Owdup, youtha, dunna shut ’er down. Bobby’s ’avin you up competitiveness and encouraging schemes, accelerate delivery of the glebe. Al stick your guard in the back end. Dunna ’ang foreign investment; and projects which are underway, and abart, got the Dawby up yer orse.” OK. With face pressed supporting wider social benefits, better manage project risk. All against the windscreen of the 304, I headed south. Within a such as new jobs and housing? delivered within the framework of few chains I was swinging left into a sidings and, in no time, ‘The decision to implement a national strategy.’ I got two on the bell to say I was behind the dummy. Now, partial electrification – announced why didn’t I know all that in the first place?’ on the day the Commons rose for the summer recess in 2017 – was QUOTE… STEVE RICHARDSON , Waterloo Nine sold to the public as a boon to ‘The Tories are having a Elms branch secretary, and District 1 council passengers. But, after questioning conversation with secretary, wrote a nice, witty – and honestly the Secretary of State, and failing themselves. I think we need pragmatic – letter to the EC in April. ‘Thank to get straight answers, I can only to have a conversation with you for your kind donation of £250 towards assume that the problems arise the country. Labour is my campaign in the London local elections,’ principally from a failure to ideally placed to have that wrote Steve, who lives at Orpington in Kent. ‘Whilst the understand and manage the costs conversation.’ – Manuel ward of Chelsfield & Pratt’s Bottom is not one of Labour’s of the large scale electrification Cortes , GS of the TSSA, on targets, its name, as I am sure you would agree, is a source projects that were considered Brexit of much amusement. That said, it is important that ASLEF essential only a few years ago. …UNQUOTE candidates are seen to be able to run effective campaigns. ‘We need to see action by the Your donation, along with others, has been a great help.’

‘30 YEARS AGO WOMEN DIDN’T DRIVE TRAINS’ ANDREW BRIDGEN , Conservative MP for Pauline Cawood, of Leeds branch, is a featured member North West Leicestershire, told MPs how as part of the TUC’s 150 year celebrations. ‘I came into proud he is of having no rough sleepers in the rail industry 22 years ago very quiet, very nervous, his constituency. Jeremy Corbyn offered to and now I’m a completely different person.’ send up some of his from Islington by train. ‘I’ve no railway station, either,’ said Bridgen CONFERENCES & RALLIES smugly. ‘There you have it,’ says Nigel Nelson, political ASlEF’s annual assembly of delegates is at the Marriott Hotel, editor of the Sunday Mirror and a columnist on the Sunday Liverpool, from Monday 21 to Friday 25 May. The durham Miners’ Gala People . ‘North West Leicestershire is not only devoid of is on Saturday 14 July. The tolpuddle Martyrs’ festival , near rough sleepers, but railway sleepers, too.’ Dorchester, is from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 July. The 150th trades Union Congress is at the Manchester Central convention complex from KEVIN MAGUIRE , associate editor Sunday 9 to Wednesday 12 September. The labour Party conference (politics) of the Daily Mirror and a is at the Arena & Convention Centre in Liverpool from Sunday 23 to frequent face on television, is Wednesday 26 September. The StUC women’s conference is at the presenting a naughtily subversive new Caird Hall, Dundee, from Monday 29 to Tuesday 30 October. Not the Royal Wedding podcast for the Mirror , interviewing prominent republicans as Harry and 500 CLUB : M Joyce, with number 133, won the April draw, scooping Meghan plight their troth. First up, naturally, is his old the RMS prize money jackpot of £380. republican mate, the Beast of Bolsover, Dennis Skinner.

SOVIET intelligence officers, at the You’ll always be fully charged with our red height of the Cold War, were known to aluminium phone power bank, 2200 mAh observe to their oppos in MI5 and MI6: capacity, for smart phone use, output ‘Any fool can commit a good murder; but current d5v/1A. Includes USB cable with it takes a real artist to commit a good micro USB plug. £7 (inc p&p); email natural death.’ [email protected] or visit our online shop at www.aslef.org.uk

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 5 News

Andy with an Tarancón – No pasaran! Aberdeen Brigade replica ANDY JONES , Motherwell flag on the branch secretary, reports on Arganda a trip to Spain to remember bridge; the men and women who Maximo fought and died at Tarancón remembers those who during the Spanish Civil War made the N 16 February my wife ultimate Gillian and I had the sacrifice; and O privilege of attending the guerrilla the 7th annual commemoration gardening to the memory of Scottish team members of the British battalion of the International Brigades and locals from Tarancón who were be las Brigadas Internacionales victims of General Franco. This who spoke movingly of the QUOTE… was our third trip to this event, courage of the Brigaders and local comradely chat, at Restaurante ‘I use the Overground if I can. I which is held in the cemetery at Republican residents. Toscana with attendees from like the 24 bus for Tarancón, just south of Madrid. John O’Neil from Perth read a Ireland, Wales, the USA and the Westminster but generally I A good crowd of local poem The Graves of Spain then Netherlands. get the Tube. I was 60 last May residents and visitors from Maximo Gutierrez and Kirsty The previous day Maximo had so I got my free Oyster pass. overseas gathered on a gloomy Robbins read the roll of honour of arranged some ‘guerrilla Ridiculous, but bloody handy.’ morning to remember the victims the names on the memorials. The gardening’ at the now abandoned – Alastair Campbell in ES of Franco’s fascists during the ceremony ended with a minute’s Hospital No 2 to highlight the …UNQUOTE Spanish Civil War. Speakers silence, a rendition of the neglect of the building by the included Mike Arnott from the Internationale , and the laying of local council. A group of us from IBMT, Maximo Molina Gutierrez red roses on the memorial. Scotland joined locals and and died in the civil war as well as from the Associacion para la The attendees then toured the members of the ARMH to tidy the those who were victims after the Recuperacion de la Memoria town, visiting four Republican grounds. The ARMH want to war. An incredibly worthwhile Historica, and Almudena Cros hospitals from the war. We then preserve the building as a event I would encourage ASLEF from the Asociacion de Amigos shared lunch, and some memorial to those who fought colleagues to attend.

Val Shawcross, the Solidarité avec la CGT Deputy London Mayor GS Mick Whelan has doesn’t work; and with responsibility for sent a message of privatisation will not transport, attended a solidarity to Gilbert work. It was an Croydon Tramlink Garrel, secrétaire ideological, not a branch meeting on 27 général de la practical, decision here March to hear from Fédération Nationale in Britain, and we are the drivers who keep des Cheminots CGT, in suffering the which should, the system moving their struggle with consequences with obviously, be run in safely. SNCF and President the highest fares in the public, not the Macron’s attempts to Europe, and the oldest private, sector. For the Fury at rail awards mock terror attack take away their t&cs to rolling stock, and we public good – not for ‘ready the French see millions of pounds private profit. Rail Technology magazine has been forced to apologize after the railway for haemhorrage from Especially as tens of rail industry awards ceremony it organizes featured a bizarre mock privatisation’. the railway system millions of pounds terror event on the first anniversary of the deadly attack on Mick told French every year in profits goes from the Westminster Bridge. Rail industry executives sat open mouthed in television and radio: ‘I and dividends for the Treasury – from the shock at the lavish black tie awards ceremony and Network Rail and urge France not to privateers. taxpayer – to Chiltern Railways returned their awards in disgust. make the same ‘Public utilities – subsidise the running the magazine and event organisers were also criticised for mistakes that were such as gas, water, and of the railways every employing women in ‘inappropriate’ skimpy outfits at the UK Rail made here in Britain. postal services, as well year.’ Industry Awards hosted by comedian Rufus hound in Battersea, Privatisation hasn’t as the railway – are Mick added: ‘The south london. After attendees complained about ‘the casual sexist worked; privatisation natural monopolies neoliberal agenda is a portrayal of women’ and ‘the mock terrorist attack’ the magazine busted flush – the tried to laugh off the spoof killings as ‘a joke’ but then changed tack global economic saying the event ‘does not reflect the values and opinions of UKRIA, collapse ten years ago Rail Technology , and Cognitive Publishing.’ proved that – and here in Britain most Carry all your stuff – papers, sandwiches, people – even keys – in style with our smart new sturdy Conservative voters – black ASlEF bag. Price £17.50 (inc p&p); now want to bring email [email protected] or visit our online the railways back into shop at www.aslef.org.uk ASlEF sent a message of solidarity to the CGt public ownership.’

6 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 News DfT’s ‘smoke and mirrors’ HE National Audit Office investigation But it is clear from the conclusions of the NAO into the Department for Transport’s investigation that Chris Grayling lied. The truth T controversial decision to cancel three is that the government didn’t want to find the major rail projects, published on 29 March, money and made up a story about “sudden suggested that the Secretary of State for improvements” using “state of the art bi-mode Transport had not told the truth about the trains”. It’s a fantasy, an exercise in smoke and reasons for cancelling the work. mirrors, and Mr Grayling has been rumbled by Mick: Mr Grayling has to consider his position GS Mick Whelan said: ‘We welcome the the NAO. results of this investigation into the DfT’s ‘The Prime Minister’s fingerprints are all government to secure a new and sustainable decision to cancel electrification of the Great over this, too. The NAO says she took the franchise for Wales and the Borders. And, after Western main line in South Wales, the Midland decision to cancel the Cardiff to Swansea this damning report, electrify the Midland main line, and the Lakes line between scheme in July last year. So the Prime Minister, main line and the Lakes line, too. Which is Windermere and Oxenholme, because the the Transport Secretary and the DfT are saying what they promised at the general election.’ decision to renege on this Conservative Party that the people of South Wales don’t count. Mick added: ‘How many failures can one pledge was as perverse and ridiculous as it was They should do the right thing and electrify man take and still be in position? Mr Grayling indefensible. the line to Swansea; address the historical was condemned in another NAO report in ‘This country needs a modern railway, and a underfunding of the Welsh rail network; and January over his handling of GTR. He clearly proper infrastructure, fit for the 21st century. honour the agreement made with the Welsh has to consider his position.’ dIY down under Cliff Blackwell, Ripple Lane RMS, sent the Journal this wicked image of a spoof ad after Aussies David Warner, Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft were caught cheating by using sandpaper to tamper with the ball during the third test against South Africa in SMILE, PLEASE: AGS Simon Weller, EC1 Marz Colombini and Kat Cuss from the finance department at head Cape Town. office join branch secretaries for the traditional team pic at Wortley hall (see course report on page 17).

RIDERS BANNED FOR FREIGHT TRADE ASSOCIATION CLAIMS ARE FALSE LEVEL CROSSING BREACH QUOTE… Freight on Rail manager Philippa Edmunds has criticised a flawed report Thirty-five riders – including Ian ‘When the Tube is rammed – HGVs: Do They Pay Their Way? – produced by RepGraph for the Freight Stannard of Team Sky – in the it is frightening. I prefer the Trade Association. ‘It falsely claims that HGVs cover the costs of the second peloton were disqualified little underground in damage they cause,’ she said. ‘ We know – and can show – that they don’t.’ from the Scheldeprijs cycling race Glasgow. It used to be in Belgium in April after riding painted orange – hence its the water of life tastes better in an ASlEF crystal across a level crossing as the gate nickname, the Clockwork whisky tumbler! Price £8 (inc p&p); email was closing. Union Cycliste Orange.’ – Kirsty Wark [email protected] or visit our online shop at Internationale road race rules say …UNQUOTE riders must stop at a rail crossing www.aslef.org.uk when warning lights are flashing. What can you get for your new , shiny £1 coin? TBF membership... just £1 a week covers you, your partner and dependent childr en. 0300 333 2000 www.tbf.org.uk

Transport Benevolent Fund CIO, known as TBF, is a registered charity in England and Wales, 1160901 , and Scotland, SC047016.

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 7

News

well as men, to become train drivers.’ Mind the pay gap – train Mick added: ‘Train drivers are highly unionised and covered and protected by drivers are best of British strong collective bargaining agreements – factors which have helped deliver this success EW figures show that the job with the story. However, while this news is welcome, we smallest gap in wages between men know the rail industry needs to do more to N and women working in any improve its recruitment policies and we will occupation in the UK is that of driving trains. work with the FOCs and TOCs to make sure Statistics compiled by the Government this happens.’ Equalities Office reveal that while the overall Equal pay is the right in Britain for men and gender pay in Britain is 18.4%, for train drivers women to be paid the same for doing the it is just 0.7%. same, or equivalent, work. It has been part of Mick Whelan, general secretary, said: ‘I am sex discrimination law for more than 40 years, delighted that train drivers have the lowest and was enshrined in the Equality Act 2010. gender pay gap of any job in the UK because But a significant pay difference still exists in ASLEF has been at the forefront of promoting lee James, ASlEF’s equalities adviser, with many industries. diversity in our industry, working hard to the Women’s Representatives Committee There are no sanctions against companies encourage train companies to ensure that outside a Suffragettes exhibition at the which pay men more than women for doing train drivers are more representative of the Museum of london near head office the same job. Firms which are named and communities they serve. shamed – they have to publish their gender ‘As a trade union, we can only recruit as freight operating companies. But we work pay gap on their website as well as reporting it members people who have been selected, and with these companies, every day of every to the GEO – are able to carry on after the bad trained, to work as drivers by the train and week, to ensure they encourage women, as news hits the headlines. Grayling sneaks in more privatisation GS Mick Whelan has condemned the dangers of further privatisation of Britain’s railway after the Secretary of State for Transport invited bids to run a new West Coast partnership. Chris Grayling unveiled a ‘new vision that could see HS2 become a fully integrated railway, with a single organisation running all aspects of the service – the tickets, trains, maintaining the track and other infrastructure like signalling – ensuring a single joined-up ‘We cannot jeopardise safety’ team will deliver the best possible passenger service.’ owned. This plan will see part of ‘We would welcome that,’ said our vital infrastructure hived off Mick. ‘But only if it is in the public into the private sector, where sector, which is what the vast profit, not safety, is the name of majority of passengers now want. the game. We have always argued that the ‘Those of us in the rail industry tosh Mcdonald, Marz Colombini, hugh Bradley, Andy hudd, Mick fragmentation of our railways remember the disaster of Railtrack Whelan, Andy hourigan, dave Calfe, and howard Kaye celebrate the after privatisation has been bad which shows what happens when solidarity of the labour movement – and the tUC’s heart unions week for our industry, and bad for a private company runs a safety- – on the steps of head office in Smithfield. Britain. We want to see the wheels critical industry. We cannot and steel put back together. jeopardise our safety record by ‘But not in the private sector. returning to the bad old days TEN TONNES OF PIGEON POO when private companies cut And, at the moment, and I know ten tonnes of pigeon excrement were removed from the dome of corners and put passengers at the government doesn’t like it, but Flinders Street station in Melbourne, Australia, when it was cleaned risk.’ Network Rail is wholly publicly for the first time in a century as part of a $100 million makeover.

MAY DAY WITH MARX Are you made of QUOTE… the Marx Memorial library on Clerkenwell Green, where labour the write stuff? ‘Passengers have been badly movement activists gather for the traditional May day march, will Snap up ASlEF’s let down and will be deeply throw open its doors on tuesday 1 May. ‘It’s a chance for everyone smart black frustrated that they can’t to have a look at our historic collections,’ says Meirian Jump. Castelli moleskin make plans with certainty.’ – notebook. £5 Anthony Smith , chief (inc p&p); email executive, Transport Focus, UNDERNEATH THE ARCHES [email protected] or visit on the decision to delay A number of private equity firms – including terra Firma, run by our online shop at timetable information Guy hands – are negotiating to buy Network Rail’s property assets www.aslef.org.uk …UNQUOTE for £1.2 billion. other bidders include Blackstone, telereal trillium, and funds linked to the investment bank Goldman Sachs.

8 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018

Key Worker It’s a grand old team to play for it’s a grand old team to support

District 3 Organiser Colin Smith retires at runner, a creative player with an eye for the try the end of this month after AAD in his line, good enough to play for Merseyside schools home city of Liverpool. KEITH RICHMOND and have trials for Lancashire. ‘I was reasonably listens as Colin looks back on life as a good,’ says Colin modestly. ‘I had a bit of pace, a good sidestep, and decent ball handling skills.’ train driver, ASLEF rep, rugby player (and He adds, laughing, ‘Barry John would have been rugby coach), fervent follower of proud of me!’ play. If you made a mistake – if you knocked the Northern soul and, as the theme tune ball on – the fans would come down on you like from Z Cars booms out across Goodison ‘It’s only a game, old sport. It’s all a game.’ – a ton of bricks. It was like This Sporting Life – Park, as a life-long Everton fan in the Phillips , a sports reporter, in This professional rugby league is a rough, tough old blue heart of Merseyside Sporting Life game. There were half a dozen players on really good salaries and then there were the rest of us, A‘n Achilles heel injury at 22 meant he had to not knowing where the next wage packet was HERE is a famous rugby adage – common to both codes – often give up rugby for a while. When he started to coming from.’ T attributed to Willie John McBride, a regain fitness, he joined Liverpool Harriers, one He had twelve good months before a serious powerful lock for both Ireland and the British of Britain’s best known athletics clubs, and took knee injury put paid to his career in professional Lions who was a key part of the side that beat up running. Colin loved what Alan Sillitoe rugby league. Colin got his coaching badges and the All Blacks in 1971 and then, as an famously described as The Loneliness of the Long began coaching Liverpool Polytechnic rugby inspirational captain, led the Lions to victory Distance Runner , won the 1,500 and 3,000 metres league team, and then Birkenhead. ‘I had to over South Africa in 1974. He had a simple at the British Rail championships, represented stand there and let them hammer me,’ he recalls, instruction for his teammates on tour – ‘Get your Britain’s railway workers in Europe, and turned in ‘pretending not to mind and trying not to limp.’ retaliation in first’ – and pursued a policy of ‘One a very impressive time of 2 hours 37 minutes at in, all in’ meaning that when one Lion ‘retaliated’, the Liverpool marathon. ‘My love of New York is something to do with every other red vest on the pitch would join the When he went back to playing rugby, he Liverpool. There is the same energy in both melee or simply take out the nearest Springbok. opted for league rather than union. The 13-man cities.’ – John Lennon It is, perhaps, instructive that Colin Smith, game – celebrated in David Storey’s novel This Sporting Life , and turned into a film starring C‘olin had left school at 16 to become an who retires from his post as District 3 Organiser at the end of the month, after AAD, which is Richard Harris as Machin; Rachel Roberts as apprentice fitter and turner at an engineering being held on his home patch of Liverpool, has Margaret; Alan Badel as Weaver; and Leonard firm – ‘which I hated’ – and worked for a year for played or coached rugby for much of his life. Rossiter as the sports writer, Phillips – is famously a butcher – ‘top meat for a protein diet!’ – before Although, as a fleet-footed inside centre, and an strong in its northern heartlands, and attracts a joining the railway, and the union, in 1971. ‘My exponent of what he has always believed to be different group of people, as players and fans, father said “the railway isn’t bad” so I went to the real beautiful game, Colin has never been a from rugby union. Garston on the Cheshire lines and worked myself thug either on or off the pitch. ‘You never get many academics going to through the grades. But he does understand the importance of rugby league – it’s train drivers, coal miners, and ‘I drove electrics, and DMUs, mostly standing up for yourself, and the value, in a trade labourers – getting paid in vouchers for passenger, for British Rail, and Merseyrail, out of union as well as a team, of solidarity. And, of Dewhurst the Master Butcher,’ says Colin, who Chester. I remember once at Hoylake, driving course, of the value of ‘one out, all out’ when it spent a year playing – as a centre – for Rochdale past into West Kirby, I was stopped at a signal comes to industrial action. Hornets. and got carried away. It was a lovely day, so I ‘It was daunting knowing people were stepped off the train, and was keenly watching Machin: ‘ We don’t have stars in this game, turning up on Saturday and paying to see me the golf, and eventually they sent an inspector Mrs Weaver, that’s soccer.’ Mrs Weaver: ‘What do you have?’ Machin: ‘People like me.’ ‘– This Sporting Life No Pasarán! the Spanish Civil War 1936-39

Colin was born at Sefton Park, Toxteth, in 1953. The International Brigades Memorial Trust commemorates the battle against fascism in His father Freddie was a fitter, who worked for a Spain where, in the 1930s, the democratically-elected left-wing Republican government time on the railway, at Brunswick during steam, introduced social and economic reforms to improve the lives of industrial workers and while his mother Lillian was a seamstress and peasant farmers. Conservatives – the rich, the powerful and the Roman Catholic church – cook. He had two brothers and a sister – Colin were furious and in July 1936 the army, led by General Francisco Franco, tried to overthrow was the youngest brother, the third child of four the government by force. Tens of thousands of Spaniards rallied to the Republican cause, – in a sporting family. the coup failed, and the country was plunged into a bloody civil war. Franco’s Nationalist ‘Mum was a swimmer, and Dad had been a PT army was backed by right-wing Falangist irregulars as well as troops from Nazi Germany instructor in the Parachute regiment, and both and Fascist Italy as Hitler and Mussolini used Spain as a testing ground for the weapons believed in playing sport and keeping fit.’ Their and tactics with which they would fight World War Two. The governments of Britain and children – two rugby players and a boxer, while France, wedded to an ill-conceived policy of appeasement of the great dictators, pursued Jane competed as a pentathlete – kept up the a cynical line of non-intervention because, cabinet papers subsequently revealed, they family tradition. ‘I loved it. I loved the feared socialism, and the power of the workers, more than they feared the Nazis and the camaraderie and the discipline, and it taught me Fascists and their rich friends in England. But, on the Republican side, volunteers in the lots – about respect, and teamwork.’ International Brigades answered Joan Miró’s call to Aidez L’Espagne , many of them living, At school he played rugby union – playing at fighting and dying under a slogan used by anti-fascists ever since: ‘No Pasarán!’ 12, inside centre – and was a strong, dynamic

10 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 Colin Smith

the do in action for ASlEF; Brothers in Arms: GS Mick Whelan gives Colin a comradely hug as Birkenhead branch celebrates 130 years; spot the young rugby star (front row, in front of the head); running a marathon on Merseyside; silverware for the mantelpiece; muddied and bloodied after scoring a try; that tie celebrates the toffees, not the tories; Colin with Jack Jones, of the transport & General Workers’ Union, who fought with the International Brigades in Spain; This Sporting Life ; Richard harris as Machin in lindsay Anderson’s film of david Storey’s novel; and Joan Miró’s celebrated poster of a Catalan peasant raising a leftist Republican salute against Franco’s fascists down to see if the driver was still alive! Colin’s a lifelong Evertonian though, ironically, Passengers were banging on the windows and I his mum and dad were both Liverpool fans. ‘My was told they’d pulled the signal 20 minutes mum’s brother was a blue and he took my earlier. But I got away with it…’ brothers and me to Goodison Park. I think I was He went to college – to what was then six the first time I went, to see either Aston Villa Liverpool Polytechnic and is now John Moores or Wolves. I remember the greats – Alex Young, University – to study part-time, three days a the golden vision; Alan Ball; Colin Harvey; week, for four years for a diploma in Labour Howard Kendall; Bob Latchford; and I did like History under Professor Tom Kearney, a leading Duncan Ferguson’s aggression. When I stopped light in the CP. ‘I learned about the history of the terms and conditions; and the great support I’ve playing rugby I bought two season tickets – one labour movement; how to protect workers’ had from members.’ The worst part, he says, was for Everton and one for St Helens – and I still go rights; what it means to be progressive; and seeing members blamed, and sometimes to Goodison. There are two teams in the city – about leading the way. Tom opened my eyes to a dismissed, for infrastructure issues. ‘These days they’re red, we’re blue – and there’s nothing red lot of things.’ all the protections are in place; it was a blame in my house! Well, for football. My politics are red culture back then, but we got rid of that.’ – I’ve always been a member of the Labour Party, ‘When I’ve got nothing better to do, I look Colin has two children – Marvin, named, never voted Tory, and find Jeremy Corbyn, who down the league table to see how Everton are because Colin is a big fan of Northern soul, after has promised to renationalise Britain’s railways, getting along.’ – Bill Shankly Marvin Gaye, and Claire – and three an absolute inspiration – and I will always be red.’ grandchildren – Charlotte, Lilly May, and Freddie ‘Colin served as a local level rep, branch chair at – who share their father’s values. ‘I am joining the people’s football club.’ – Birkenhead, company council and as a delegate He has worked closely with other trade David Moyes at three AADS before running for district unions in the north-west of England – organiser. ‘I became a rep to defend people. The particularly the GMB, Unite, Unison, NEU, PCS, Although he’s retiring, Colin is not exactly the end of BR was on the horizon and everyone was and FBU. ‘As a trade unionist it doesn’t matter r‘etiring sort, and will continue to be active in the concerned because the railway was being what colour badge you’ve got on – you don’t movement, especially in the International fragmented and nobody knew where they were cross a picket line here on Merseyside.’ And he’s Brigades Memorial Trust, which is particularly going to end up or what company they would worked very closely with Thompsons solicitors close to his heart. ‘My father fought the fascists in be working for. Privatisation was designed to over the years, too. ‘Francine O’Gorman and Jo the Second World War but many historians think undermine the workforce and undermine Seery helped me develop a training plan for our that if Franco had been stopped in his tracks – if collectivity. reps on employment law – it was a real pleasure the British and French governments had ‘It was a challenge, but I enjoyed it, and I was to put these in place – and to know our reps are defended the democratically-elected left-wing fortunate to have some very experienced reps – such a high standard.’ Spanish government – we would not have had like Lenny Halliwell and Bob Jones – who trained to fight a Second World War.’ and nurtured me.’ Then Lenny, LRC chair, had a ‘Everton are a bigger club than Liverpool. Colin – who looks a lot younger than 65 – major row with management about the Everywhere you go on Merseyside you bump admits he will miss the hard work he has been imposition of MFA. Colin was waiting for Lenny, into Everton supporters.’ – Graeme doing for the union. ‘Well, some of it! I will miss who suffered from angina, in the local reps’ Souness having a good heated debate, then walking out room. ‘When he came back I could see he was ‘ and having a drink. And pouring it over upset. He had a massive heart attack and died in The two general secretaries he talks about most someone’s head… my arms. It was a terrible tragedy but it only fondly are Mick Whelan, the current GS, and ‘Seriously, I will miss the camaraderie. strengthened my resolve to keep on carrying the Mick Rix. ‘Mick Whelan has really raised the bar; Especially here on Merseyside where, with ASLEF lighted flame.’ he’s taken us up the ladder, politically and members, it’s like playing rugby union, or rugby He’s been District 3 Organiser for 20 years – industrially, while Mick Rix created a professional league, knowing you can implicitly trust your he was elected in 1998 – and says highlights atmosphere – Mick Whelan and I both served teammates, that they’re right behind you, and include ‘all the jobs we’ve saved; protecting under him as officers – before he lost to Brady.’ ready for a fight.’

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 11 Agenda Everybody wants to know the truth

BRIAN CORBETT , District 7 government is using this as an excuse, or is Organiser, reports on the really attempting to undermine the Welsh state of rails – including the government’s whole transport strategy. Transport Secretary being Colleagues have mentioned in their called out by the National articles our involvement with the Welsh government and transport for Wales; this Audit Office on electrification, and the cannot by stated often enough, particularly plight of freight – in Wales where we secured a guard on the train protecting drivers’ long-term interests when hAt a sad indictment of this it comes to light rail. our drivers in North W government it is that, at a very Wales and the border depots, and our senior level, they lied so openly to company council representatives, are always the electorate. the National Audit office has pushing behind the scenes for colleagues not made it clear that three major electrification to be left behind and always encouraging projects were scrapped for financial reasons, more investment. and not the nonsense arguments put forward What is a long-term worry is, of course, the by transport Secretary Chris Grayling, who freight industry. We have sadly lost Barry claimed that electrification was no longer branch, which has now closed, due to the loss needed due to the ‘new state of the art trains’ of work and contracts. this now leaves just we have! Port talbot and Newport branches for all of Main line electrification between Cardiff Wales. and Swansea has now been totally pulled, at Freight on rail still has a major role to play, the direct request of Prime Minister theresa in the economy and environmentally. Moving May. this is a complete disaster for South traffic from road to rail should be a under public ownership. It must now be a Wales, and torpedoes efforts to economically permanent strategy for every government. priority to do the same for the FoCs. regenerate West Wales. the sad irony is that Freight drivers are also maintenance staff, Whilst the outlook may appear bleak, the when you enter Swansea by train you can see with ballast and infrastructure projects, view long-term should be seen as positive, that the new depot has all the stanchions and which is not understood by many people in particularly with the support from various posts, etc, in place, ready for the wires to be the industry, even those who are supposed to transport groups, local councils (of all hung. be in charge of these companies. We have for colours), the Wales tUC, the Welsh labour I am left wondering whether the tory a long time called for the toCs to be brought Party and the Welsh government.

Welsh government) would transfer to secure all this, against a to the Welsh government through backdrop of uncertainty in the Franchise fiasco Transport for Wales. franchising process. Whilst we wait for the outcome Abellio recently announced it ANDY HUDD , district organiser, company council of this process, and the news as to has pulled out of the bidding executive members and I have attended whether the Valley lines are to be which, added to the early committee campaign meetings, given light or heavy rail, we can look to withdrawal of Arriva, brings some member for evidence to transport committees, the positives contained in the First doubt into the whole process. and lobbied AMs, ministers and Minister’s statement. He provides Whilst Abellio withdrew because its District 7, on stakeholders, putting forward commitments and protection to major partner – Carillion – went lobbying the ASLEF’s position on everything Network Rail staff who may be into liquidation you can’t help but Welsh from the relationship between displaced if TfW takes the light rail wonder if there is something else at government, commitments train and track, driver only option, as well as protection of pay, the heart of these decisions. This made by First Minister Carwyn operation, and freight on rail. terms and conditions for any drivers leaves only MTR and Keolis Amey in Jones, and the problems with The Welsh government had or guards who are transferred. He the running and one wonders if this bidders for the Wales & previously petitioned hard for the also commits to ‘keep a safety provides the competition the Borders franchise same powers over railway critical conductor (guard) on all of franchising system is supposed to infrastructure and services as has the Wales & Borders trains and promote. been devolved to Scotland – but services, including heavy rail Metro It is sensible for ASLEF, in the VER the last couple of with little success. They are now services, and the trains will require light of these developments, to years, ASLEF looking to take ownership of this second person to operate’. continue to campaign for a O representatives have been certain assets from Network Rail We can, then, be cautiously publicly-owned railway in Wales as actively involved in consultations which they wish to improve. This optimistic about the future of rail in well as in the rest of the United with the Welsh government on the includes the Valley lines which Wales. We welcome the Kingdom as the only way to bring options for the new franchise for (dependent on an agreed valuation commitments from Carwyn Jones stability and long-term investment Wales. The general secretary, of assets by Network Rail and the but realize there is a long way to go back into the railway.

12 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 Wales

Shining example

IAN THOMPSON comes from Treherbert at the head of the Rhondda Fawr valley and understands the connectivity of coal and steel and rail in the economy. Ian, who sits on the general council of the Wales TUC, explains its role

HE Wales TUC, established as a region of the Trades Union T Congress in 1974 to co-ordinate Welsh unions, is now the voice of organised labour in the Welsh government’s social partnership structure. It represents 52 trade unions and around 400,000 members in the public, private and voluntary sectors. Recognised for the first time in statute – in the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act 2015 – it is a major partner in the economic, social, environmental and cultural wellbeing of Wales. With no affiliation to any political party, it is the collective voice of Welsh unions. The Wales TUC has been recognised by UK unions as devolution within the TUC, alongside devolution of Welsh government. This recognises the rights of Welsh trade unionists to have their own democratic structure and decide what is best for Wales and also that it operates in the context of a separate national legislature. It has full devolved responsibility within the TUC for matters which are within the powers of the Welsh government and matters which are wholly specific to Wales. Welsh labour is strong In these areas the bi-annual conference, at Llandudno this month, decides policy DAVID JONES, Swansea High the labour Party in Wales continues to hold and the Wales TUC general council decides implementation. Street branch secretary, and LGBT a majority of Welsh seats in the Westminster ASLEF proudly holds a seat on this Representatives’ Committee Parliament – 28 out of 40 – but labour doesn’t hold a majority in the Welsh general council – currently Ian Thompson – elsh Labour chair, on W Assembly where it has 29 out of 60 seats. and has previously been pleased to offer its the Assembly was shaken last November by expertise to the Wales TUC, its general N WAlES we have a long tradition of the tragic death of Alyn & deeside AM Carl council, and Welsh government, and is organising workers in heavy Sargeant, causing some challenging times eager to continue to be involved with all I industry and, indeed, the railway. My for the party in Wales and putting a fair parties in the future establishment of the own ASlEF branch, Swansea high Street, this amount of pressure on Welsh labour leader Welsh railway franchise. year celebrates our 130th anniversary since Carwyn Jones. The Wales TUC has devolved its formation in 1888. What of the future? Well, the party in responsibility for making policy on matters I think it is highly significant that the Wales is holding its first deputy leader ‘which impact substantially differently on labour Party wasn’t created until 1900. ‘A elections. In the year that we celebrated the Wales than elsewhere in the UK’, but not new party for a new century. A result of 100th anniversary of the Representation of autonomy. One such area will be that for many years of struggle by working-class the People Act, the first step to allowing which the recently formed Transport for people, trade unionists and socialists united women to vote, both candidates are women. Wales has responsibility, and ASLEF is ready by the goal of working-class voices in A really positive demonstration of how far to stand up and offer its railway knowledge Parliament.’ the labour movement has come. and expertise in this hugely important the party was formed by the trades unions Whilst the labour Party in Wales is development for Wales and railway and labour movement activists of the day. moving forward from the trials of 2017, and transport to assist the development of a this should continue today; we as a trade looking forward to electing its first deputy different form of franchise which, along union and labour movement should be leader, it is vital that we in the wider labour with the involvement of the Wales TUC, striving always to influence the politics that and trade union movement continue to be could be a shining example of what can be governs us all. active and seek to influence those who achieved with union co-operation. Back to Wales. Where are we today? Well, represent us.

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 13 Wales

We’re driving hire trains in GWR (the last one is due to leave in March MAGINE, for a little while, that you 2019) will result in the closure of Landore are an onlooker on the quay of a STEPHEN AUSTIN , company council depot. I certain English port. See the secretary, reports on IETs and HSTs on The new IET trains will, instead, work out stretcher-bearers with their bundles of Great Western Railway of the new Hitachi depot at Maliphant, with blankets and their piles of stretchers, waiting drivers using a hand over/hand back to board the big ship as it comes alongside. HILST all eyes currently appear to be procedure – in effect we’re now driving ‘hire They begin their task of mercy. They pass on the increasing number of IET trains’ with them being checked for damage before you in an endless stream, carrying the W trains travelling into South Wales, when returned! weak and suffering but ever cheerful lads from through Newport and Cardiff and on to Of course, with new trains comes training the ship to the train, with the care and Swansea, there are several other issues for drivers. This itself has not been without a consideration which a mother bestows on her currently keeping the GWR DDC busy. great number of problems, and a great deal child. Friend and foe are treated alike. Along with a number of other councils of time and effort has been put in by local The other day I was watching some bearers there is a fight with Network Rail to stop the reps at Bristol, Paddington, Swansea and removing some wounded Germans. The first emergency alarm wires being removed from Worcester. They’ve done a great job and two or three pairs came and put down their the Severn Tunnel, as well as the ongoing deserve a lot of credit for dealing so well burdens on the platform, saying to the issues and problems caused by the ever- with a company which always seems to sergeant in charge: ‘Fritz’, ‘Square Head’ or changing Western region electrification operate reactively, rather than proactively! ‘Berlin Scottish’ for the bearers have all sorts of programme. Finally, for the sentimental amongst us, names for the Hun. After them came another Talk of a new GWR driver depot at Cardiff HSTs will not fully disappear. A number of pair, with step, firm and slow, carrying their could be interesting, but at the moment it’s short-formed HSTs are being retained in 2+4 patient very steadily, and placing him gently just at the ‘possible’ stage, unlike at Swansea formation to run between Cardiff and the on the platform. They just said, ‘German’ and where, very soon, the replacement of all HSTs West of England. walked away. This German was both blind and legless, and I noticed particularly the care and Arriva Trains fails member of Arriva’s customer when something goes wrong attention which was given him. panel and they say they use or the driver does something WHERE ARE YOU WOUNDED, SON? IAN THOMPSON , feedback from the group to wrong. The social media age is monitor customer concerns not the best friend of a train While the patients are being entrained the company council examiner makes his final inspection to see if secretary, reports on the and make improvements. driver. The company’s twitter But the site will soon need the train is in proper order and fit for running. problems of Arriva address is also a well-used its name changed. If things go Eulogy of the examiner is superfluous. He is a Trains Wales in the age hashtag, although it is to the Welsh government’s man who knows that the lives of many of social media pleasing to see plan, come October we’ll have depend on him, and his patriotic spirit renders complimentary comments on a new brand name. We know him trustworthy. RRIVA Trains fails. there when a colleague, or the it’ll be different because Arriva The train is now loaded and steams out of That’s not just a company, have done a has pulled out of the bidding the station en route for some place in the A headline. It’s the particularly good job. process. The four horse race is north. The orderlies make the patients name of a Facebook page set Sometimes that’s just being now down to two and the comfortable for their journey, and then collect up to allow disgruntled cheerful or wearing a smile. winner should be revealed this the labels attached to each patient and hand passengers to express their But such comments are in the month. With radical plans and them in at the office where a record is made. opinions of the service they minority, unfortunately. hopes for the franchise it may The medical officer comes round to each get. And boy do they use it! The other side, of course, is be more than a different one with his cheery smile and jocular manner, Fair play, the founder is also a that it’s very easy to report coloured shirt this time… dieting them according to their complaints. ‘Where are you wounded, sonny?’ ‘Left thigh, right hand and right foot.’ ‘You’ll only get one Sesquicentennial celebrations in the Heart of Wales gold stripe for that, you know; why couldn’t WAYNE HURLOW , company council rep, reflects on 150 years of the picturesque you have been satisfied with one wound?’ And Heart of Wales line so he goes on with a pleasant word for everyone. HE Heart of Wales line celebrated its 150th anniversary on Friday 23 March. The line runs for 121 miles through unspoilt landscape, stretching from the coastal city of OLD KING SOL NOT GONE TO REST T Swansea to the agricultural town of Shrewsbury, passing through the counties of Patients have to be fed, and feeding patients is Carmarthenshire and Powys and the once-fashionable spa towns of Llanwrtyd Wells, Builth an art in itself when the train is travelling at Wells and Llandrindod Wells. the rate of 50 to 70 miles an hour. The carrying The line is a single-track construction controlled via electric working, no signalman token of soup in basins on trays, especially, remote, overseen by Pantyffynnon signal box. It maintains the bloodline through the heart necessitates a good deal of juggling. The of Wales, marvelling on its picturesque route and striking architecture, notably its numerous orderlies delight to display their skill. Jam tunnels and viaducts, which are impressive feats of Victorian engineering only surviving the sandwiches go down with a relish, and there Beeching cuts of the 1960s thanks to the fact that it carried freight from South Wales are many Oliver Twists among the patients. through several marginal political constituencies and pulling it would have been political When all are fed and warm, inside as well as suicide! Tragedy struck in 1987 when, following heavy flooding of the River Towy, the out, cigarettes are distributed, and some Glanrhyd bridge near Llandeilo collapsed and an early morning northbound passenger smoke while others sleep. Those who remain train plunged into the river, killing four people, including the driver. This tragedy, along with awake look out of the window as if old King the cost of repairs, was deemed to mean the demise of the route, but, once again, political Sol has not yet gone to rest. They gaze in awe focus ensured the line survived. En route driving the train, I question if there is a nicer line to and wonder at the stately grandeur of the be working on a crisp spring morning – and the answer, for me, is no! Finally, as a train driver northern ranges or admire the placid rivers and ASLEF rep, I must say that, thanks wholly to the hard work and determination of ASLEF and woodlands of the south. reps, First Minister Carwyn Jones has specified to the next franchise provider that there The fields are white with daisies, or perhaps must be a guard on every train – something that, as an ASLEF member, I’m very proud of nature has clothed herself in a mantle of snow. and, as a driver, I’m grateful that my colleagues’ safety critical role has been secured. Sometimes she has dressed herself in a drab

14 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 Platform Life on board an ambulance train This article appeared in the Locomotive Journal , ‘a monthly magazine for locomotive engineers and firemen,’ Vol 31 No 5, published by ASLEF in May 1918

brown, and the farmer ploughs his land and sows his seed, and hopes that she has not discarded her bridal dress for ever, but will appear in due time as fresh and gay as before. Some of the patients are fond of passing away the tedious hours in recounting their experiences. Invariably they make light of their wounds. ‘There was a careless chap in our company,’ says one, ‘and the night I got hurt he was eating oranges and throwing the peel all over the battlefield. So when I went to railway centres. A large crowd of women and see Haig to ask if it was dark enough to have children and businessmen peer in at the some fireworks, blow me if I didn’t slip on one windows, handing in gifts for the patients or of them bits of peel and cut me fingers on a wishing them good luck. A nursing orderly salmon tin.’ hands out some postcards and letters with the request that they be posted, most of them YOU ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO THINK being roughly pencilled lines to relatives and ‘How many Germans did you shoot?’ asks Joe friends. The VAD nurses, who come on the train the operation to bring injured troops home of Charlie. ‘I never shot one, and I had a good with refreshments, endeavour to make the involved trains on both sides of the Channel. chance, too. The Huns were charging in close men happier than ever, and their services are More than 1,260,000 casualties passed formation. “Shoot at will”, shouted the captain. much appreciated. through the port of dover in the Great War, “Which one is he?” I answers, and before on 7,781 ambulance trains. Each consisted of anyone could tell me I got it in the chest.’ WAITING TO ENTER THE WARDS 16 cars, including a pharmacy car, two The idea that the average soldier is The train moves on once more, and the next kitchens, a personnel car and a brake and unintelligent is quite wrong. Most of them stop is at our destination. There we find motor stores van; each coach was designated as a know what they are talking about. These men ambulances, drawn up in readiness, with ward and contained 36 beds in tiers of three. who come over and travel in our ambulance patriotic women of the WAAC standing beside Clockwise from top: Nurses in front of an trains we find to be, as a rule, men who think them to drive away as soon as they are loaded. ambulance train; the pharmacy on an as rational men should think. The drill Men of the RAMC, St John Ambulance Corps, ambulance train, June 2018; At40 ward B; sergeant may tell us, ‘You are not supposed to and Red Cross stretcher-bearers are waiting to troops on an At; and an At at Blackpool think in the army.’ If the British soldier refused enter the wards. The medical officer and the station, February 1916 to exercise his mental faculties failure would sergeant alight. ‘Boards out!’ roars the sergeant, be inevitable, whereas we have reason to and the orderlies adjust the boards at the by our efficient staffs of doctors, nurses, and believe that victory is imminent. doors so the bearers may avoid the step. The orderlies. There we must leave them while we The agricultural and horticultural areas are stretchers are carried into the wards, and the get to our work, roll up our sleeves, change left behind, and we pass into an industrial work of detraining begins. the linen, make the beds, and with brush and area, where smoking chimneys rise skywards Tommy and Jack and Bill and Bob bid each soap and water and elbow grease make our and grime and dirt replace the grass and other farewell and go to join the sick and train spick and span for the next convoy, as we flowers, and we stop at one of our great wounded in our hospitals, to be taken care of return to the disembarkation port.

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 15 Branch News

Colas; and Brian Corbett on GWR Upcoming events Ship shape and other issues in District 7. Long service badges were presented to HE GS, EC president, and Andy Saville (10 years); Ian Arkley n BRIGHTON & SUSSEX – TUESDAY 8 MAY T DOs from Districts 5, 6 and Paul Belton (15); Garry Payne, Informal open afternoon for all retired and working members and 7 all made valuable Dave West and Rich Mackie (25); of Brighton or any of the Sussex ASLEF branches from 14.00 at contributions at Bristol branch’s and Brian Hellyer (30). Other the Brighton Railway Club, Belmont, off Dyke Road. long service awards meeting. badges were sent to depots for a less formal presentation. Mick gave a state of the nation n HITHER GREEN – WEDNESDAY 9 MAY Branch appreciation speech reporting on various From 11.0 at the Richmal Crompton at Bromley South station. topics, including Southern, and certificates were presented to other potential DOO disputes, the Chris Windsor and Dave Stitfall for n NORWICH – FRIDAY 11 MAY state of the rail freight sector, and their valuable contributions to Norwich loco welfare fund reunion for footplate staff past and the importance of the ASLEF Bristol branch. Steve Harling, who present from 19.00 at the Canary Social Club, 104 Thorpe Road, fighting fund. retired through ill health, was Norwich, NR1 1RT. Free buffet. Tosh reported back on the presented with his retirement certificate. It was a great turnout; Labour Party conference and n Please send all your branch news, reports, features and recent publicity. Nigel Gibson thanks to everyone who made it photographs to [email protected] reported on freight, specifically such a memorable evening. Freightliner Heavy Haul; Dicky Bernard Kennedy , branch Fisher on the current situation at secretary Making plans for Nigel Along with EC member Andy Hudd, I had the pleasure of presenting Nigel Mack Andy and Brian wish Nigel, his partner Karen with a glass plaque and their two sons, well with a glass plaque which depicts six Jones). Nigel was also disgusted at the King’s Cross members branch secretary and way management has on the picket line. One LDC rep at Didcot, operated at DB over Bristol celebrates 760 years of service with GS Mick Whelan of which was Nigel, who decided to leave the years. Nigel was back in the 1980s. The after being told by one of the boys, and plaque is a copy of the DBC to get a driving was behind making 105 years of history inspiring triptych at licence, which he the iconic Loyal to head office painted by didn’t, as a supporter ASLEF badge back in Mick Jones (son of of public transport, 1982. T&G leader Jack wish to do. He was DO7 Brian Corbett Is that a Tory tie, Colin? Or a tie for the Toffees? GS Mick Whelan celebrates 130 years of our Birkenhead branch on Sunday 18 March – and gives do3 Colin Smith, who is retiring this month, an emotional hug.

Nine Motherwell retirees with branch chair J Baxter, secretary A Jones and EC Member h Bradley at the Bentley hotel Motherwell branch held its AGM at the Bentley Hotel on 17 December. The invited guest was District 2 EC member Hugh Bradley who gave a very detailed report on the 105 year history of our branch (not all from personal experiences). He also gave us an up to date position on the union and the successes and problems we currently face. Long service badges were presented followed by retirement presentations. After the formalities members enjoyed a buffet and a few drinks along with a good catch up. The branch has seen 18 retirees this year, many due to the unfortunate position DB Cargo finds itself in. Nine managed to attend to be presented with certificates and commemorative tankards: D Carroll, A Barrie, C Pow, D Lyle, J Feeney, C Cullen, W Stevenson, C McLaughlin, G Dickson. Andy Jones , branch secretary

16 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 100 Years of Union Velvet snow PAUL MORRIS , of Airdrie branch, reports on this year’s branch secretaries’ course

E reopened assistant secretary, was Hard biscuit, high prices, and long Airdrie also attending, as two hours, together with our war W branch in heads are better than chest,were all hot topics in the November 2017 and, one and it would be Journal 100 years ago. MICK HOLDER so far, it’s been a great beneficial for the turns back time to May 1918 success – but a steep branch. learning curve. We’ve The course was FOOD RATIONING ON THE PLATE had high attendances informal but highly On food supplies, our general secretary and lively and informative and has been in negotiation with the Food thought-provoking hugely useful. EC Ministry and pointed out the hardness debates. We’ve even president Tosh and unsuitability of the biscuit supplied, sent down a handful McDonald welcomed It was bitterly cold and made a request that the charge of resolutions to head us to South Yorkshire outside but the made for the meat ration should be office in St John before handing over welcome was warm brought within the controlled price of Street. to AGS Simon Weller at Wortley hall in such food. The result of his efforts is that But by reforming and EC1 Marz Yorkshire meat prices have been brought down an old branch we’ve Colombini to deliver from 6½d to 6d for 4oz or 2d off the lb. subsequently, and the course covering a the need for good PR have direct access to With regard to the biscuit, we are sadly, lost a wealth of huge variety of issues. and media relations as the upper echelons of informed that a more suitable biscuit union knowledge and They were happy to well as reiterating the our union and to be cannot be obtained at present, and it is experience (which share their knowledge, importance of our able to ask questions pointed out that, while the biscuit is hard, remains at Yoker) and, experience and Journal and how not about a variety of it is nutritious, and of the same quality as essentially, we’re opinions, giving us only does it provide a matters that directly supplied to the troops. building from the numerous tips and direct dialogue with and indirectly affect It is hoped members will be able to ground up. Solid advice on best senior union our working lives. The obtain sufficient bread without having to foundations are a vital practice. Simon and members but also course was very well purchase the biscuit. The increased food component in making Marz, essentially, held educates and informs attended and it was ration to our members which the GS has our branch effective our hands and rank and file great to meet 22 other continually pressed for is now in and I have, at times, ensured we members. men and women from operation, and the fact that the long felt overwhelmed and understood the role of GS Mick Whelan all over the UK doing hours worked each week require an extra under-educated. So I the branch, the gave a powerful the same job for allowance is receiving the further was delighted to get a branch secretary and speech, which was members. A sound attention of the EC. chance to attend the union during very well received, bunch – we had a ASLEF’s branch these interesting touching on industrial great time bonding! – FOR WIDOWS AND LITTLE ONES secretaries’ course at a times. issues, politics, society, and the calibre of F Noble, Cudworth branch secretary, snow-clad Wortley Kat Cuss briefed us and the part that branch secretaries reports: ‘We are pleased to add to the Hall, near Sheffield, at on branch finances trade unions in bodes well for the orphan’s fund, for the benefit of our the end of February. I and showed us how general, and ASLEF in future of ASLEF. deceased comrades’ widows and little was even more to tackle the dreaded particular, have played The course gave us ones, the sum of £7 2s 11d, being half of delighted when I annual branch in the labour a chance to share our the proceeds of a concert held on Good found that Derek statement and Keith movement. collective knowledge, Friday and given by H&B Railway McCluskey, Airdrie’s Richmond highlighted It was superb to ideas, experience and employees for the benefit of the ASLE&F solutions on how to and NUR orphan funds.’ solve specific problems as well as an l ASlEF’s in-house training courses cover a wide range of £250,000 IN OUR WAR CHEST subjects, preparing and assisting our members in carrying opportunity to debate The Society closed 1917 with a out roles including being a delegate to AAd, public the bigger issues and membership approaching very closely to speaking, standing for political office, chairing branch what direction our 37,000, since when to the time of writing meetings, and the popular course for ASlEF branch union should take on over a thousand new members have secretaries. having used various venues over the last ten a national level. I’d like to thank all joined our ranks, and several new years – including the Marx Memorial library, ItF, Stoke branches have been opened. We should Rochford hall and Unite’s Esher Place – this year we held our the attendees, especially the senior close the year 1918 with well over 40,000 three day residential course at Wortley hall. Known as the members and £250,000 in our war chest. workers’ stately home, Wortley hall has been associated union members, who helped contribute to a with the trade union and labour movement since the 1950s BEANS, CARROTS AND TURNIPS when local activists set up a co-operative to purchase and highly informative and Tips in Gardening Notes for Allotment run the place as an education centre. We have always had enjoyable few days. I feel better equipped Holders include information on dwarf close ties with Wortley hall, which boasts an ASlEF meeting beans, runner beans, garden beet, room laid out in traditional boardroom style, and an to carry out my duties as branch secretary carrots and turnips. attractive piece of ASlEF stained glass artwork. and look forward to Marz Colombini the challenges ahead.

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 17 The 500 Club STANDIN G ORDE R M ANDA TE To ______Ban k The 500 Club is a fundraising venture for ASLEF’s Retired Members’ Section. Numbers in the draw cost £4 each and, to begin making Ad dress ______payments into club funds, all you have to do is complete the ______standing order form and return it to your bank. Alternatively, you ______

can pay by cheque a year in advance; the cheque should be made BANK BRANCH TIT LE ( NOT AD DRESS) SORTING C ODE N O.

payable to ASLEF RMS 500 Club. Ple as e p ay Uni ty Trust Ba nk Bi rmingham 08 -60 -01

Payments need to reach the club account by 1st of every month ’ and the draw takes place on 12th of every month – with the winning BENEFI CIA RY S N AME ACCOUN T N UM BER For th e cred it of ASL EF RMS 5 00 CLU B ACCO UNT 2 0 2 0 1 1 9 3 number, name, and prize printed on page 5 of the ASLEF Journal . Once you have arranged your method of payment just complete the form and return it to the Admin Department at head office. AMOU NT IN F IGUR ES AMOU NT IN WO RDS

The su m o f £ The Retired Members’ Section committee would like to thank you for your support and wish you luck in the draw! DATE AN D AM OUNT OF F IRS T PA YM ENT DUE DA TE AND FR EQU ENCY Yours fraternally, Mick Whelan, general secretary ST Com mencing £ and th ere after e very 1 OF EVE RY MONT H

ASlEF RMS 500 Club application form DATE AN D AM OUNT OF L AST PA YM ENT *Until £ *Until you r ece ive fu rth er notice fro m m e/us in writ in g Name...... Qu otin g t he and debit my/our acco unt acc ord in gly re ference Address...... Pleas e can cel any prev ious stan din g o rd er or dir ect d ebit in fav our of t he benefici ary named ab ove ...... Telephone No...... SPE CIA L INSTRU CTIO NS email......

Each number costs £4. You can purchase as many numbers as you like. ACCOUN T TO B E DEBITE D ACCOUN T N UM BER I confirm that I wish to purchase ____ numbers as part of the 500 Club. A) I have set up my standing order (£48 per annum or £4 per month) Si gnatur e( s) ______Date ______B) I enclose a cheque for advance payment (£48 per annum) ______’ Signed...... Date...... Note: The Ban k will n ot underta ke t o: (i) mak e an y r eference t o Va lu e Ad ded Tax or oth er in determ inat e ele ment (ii) advis e pay er s a ddre’ ss t o b enefici ar y (iii) advis e beneficiary o f in ab ili ty t o p ay Please return to: Andrea Weston in the Administration Department, ASLEF, (iv ) request benefici ar y s b an ker t o a dvis e b enefic iary o f r eceip t

77 St John Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1M 4NN * De lete if n ot ap plic ab le If th e a mounts o f t he p eriod ic p ay ments v ar y, t hey sho uld b e in corp ora ted in a sc hedule overl eaf

18 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 obituaries

of others above his own. he was our district MARTIN WARRICK council rep for many years and represented TOP NOTCH RAILWAYMAN us at AAd. Martin was passionate about our union, West ham, and the Isle of Wight! It is with a heavy heart that I report the he planned to move to the island upon death of our dear friend and faithful ASlEF his transfer to Fratton in June 2014, but was stalwart, Martin Warrick, who died on 25 dealt a cruel hand when he was diagnosed February at the age of 59. with cancer. Martin underwent complex Martin was old school, starting his surgery and chemotherapy treatment, railway career as a traction trainee at old forcing him to retire from the railway that oak Common on 16 october 1978 and he loved in January 2017. he spent the being made up to second man the following summer and autumn taking it following month. he became a passed man easy on the island. in September 1981, driving Class 47s for a his funeral was held at Reading on 12 few years until he got his driver’s job at March with his family and many railway Wimbledon Park on the Southern Region in friends in attendance. Martin arrived, March 1984. uncharacteristically, on time in a coffin Martin considered the Southern to be painted in his beloved West ham colours of the best region in British Railways, so he CoYI: Martin was passionate about ASlEF, claret and blue that we all know and love. registered an 8b move to Reading Southern West ham United, and the Isle of Wight Martin was a top notch railwayman, an and, when that depot closed, moved to excellent staff rep, a good friend, and a Farnham in May 1993, where he stayed for Farnham ASlEF member. fantastic dad and grandad who will be many years, serving on the ldC, and Martin was a quiet, unassuming, greatly missed. working tirelessly on behalf of every single character, always considerate to the needs Steve West , Farnham Branch

RON KENNEDY DONALD MacPHERSON Ronald John Kennedy was born moving to and grew up near King’s Cross. He Helensburgh in started his railway career at the 1954. He worked top shed, working his way up to there until it become a driver, and was a closed in 1987, staunch union man, branch moving to Yoker activist, and served as a local level TMD until he rep. Ron and his wife Marlene, like retired in 1992. many colleagues, moved to Donald was an Southend where a house was active member of within their means. Ron, a ASLEF and liked member of the Labour Party, the railway was by all; a family stood as a councillor and won a his pride and joy’ man, and church seat on Southend council, and Ron Kennedy BEM 1932-2018 I am sad to report elder, who will be then a seat on Essex County the death of of Southend. Our heartfelt thanks much missed. Council. He also served as a JP Donald to Marlene and daughter Katie for D Lowrie , Yoker and on the children’s adoption MacPherson, who sharing Ron with us, for without branch chair board. When Ron retired he the support of his family he would started on the continued his good work by not have been able to give so railway at Yoker serving on the Southend Hospital much service to society. steam depot in board and was given the freedom Peter Smith , King’s Cross Glasgow before

DENNIS WILLIAM McLEOD PATTENDEN William McLeod, who has died at 87, Dennis Pattenden has was an Aberdonian. He loved the passed away. He was a railways and joined up as soon as he very loyal ASLEF member. could, serving on the railway all his During the 1982 strike he, working life. He did two years’ national with other members (Ray William McLeod service in the Royal Signals, and then, Cooper being one) held 1931-2018 in the 1950s, was sent on loan to the line against Dick Kentish Town. With the introduction of diesels in the Huntley who was 1970s he transferred to King’s Cross, where he remained, encouraging drivers to taking up residence in Hatfield with his wife Irene and cross the picket line. But family. He slotted in well and was respected by all. Dennis and others held Highlight of his career was driving a royal train down firm while his wife Milly the main line. Towards the end he developed a medical was making the tea for the condition and took a green card job at Ferme Park, and pickets. What a man and in 1994 he retired. His Daughter Fiona would like to what a lady! God bless you thank all those who turned out on a wet and windy both. morning to support the family at William’s funeral. Dave Weddle , Tonbridge Peter Smith , King’s Cross RMS donald MacPherson retired in 1992

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 19 letters

Join the conversation! Send letters by email to [email protected] or We stand with Jeremy, the Palestinians, and Jewish by Royal Mail to the ASLEF Journal people everywhere who are victims of anti-Semitism at 77 St John Street, London, EC1M 4NN The smears against Jeremy Corbyn, claiming him to be a racist anti-Semite, are I’m after memories of the absurd and designed to be divisive. Jeremy, of all the original high speed train MPs in Parliament, can hold I’m a producer working with Windfall Films his head high when it looking to get in touch with British Rail staff comes to his record on anti- who worked on Inter City 125 trains, especially racism, from the anti- in the late 1970s and early 1980s. We are apartheid movement to working on a new two-part documentary for defending ethnic minorities Channel 5 and looking for contributors who and protesting against can tell us what it was like working on the wars of intervention in Iraq, railway as trains were modernised and Afghanistan, Libya and Jeremy Corbyn, with Mick Whelan and Claire McCarthy, in upgraded and the popularity of the railway elsewhere, wars which left relaxed mood among comrades, colleagues, and friends at increased exponentially. hundreds of thousands of the joint ASlEF/Co-operative Party reception at the labour As the 125s are now being phased out in people dead and countries Party conference in Brighton last year favour of the new Hitachi models we aim to in ruins. The MPs lining up pay homage to the original design that to attack the Labour leader Umunna standing shoulder Minister has spent his life revolutionised high speed travel in Britain are often cheerleaders for to shoulder with Sajid drawing attention to the before it leaves our tracks, and personal military intervention, Javid, architect of the new plight of the Palestinians is memories and recollections of this period although it should be anti-union laws. anathema for this section would really bring the story to life for our noted that they very Second, mainstream of the pro-Israel lobby. But audience. seldom volunteer to be on media have gleefully used support for the Palestinian Channel 5 uses a diamond system which the frontline themselves in this story to continue their people is not anti-Semitic. aims for more diversity in television, to reflect these ‘humanitarian’ campaign against Jeremy Northern Line North is society and enhance creativity, so ideally we operations. Corbyn and the policies he proud to affiliate to the would be looking for more women to be Three different forces represents: peace, social Palestine Solidarity involved, in the spirit of diversity, but it would are at play here. A majority democracy, and trade Campaign and feels the be great to hear your thoughts and we would of the Parliamentary union rights, etc. That the trade union movement love to work with you to honour the history of Labour Party have never Labour Party is apparently must not be cowed into this pioneering British train as its heyday and will never accept ‘mired in the filth of anti- meekly accepting the comes to an end and a new generation arrives. Jeremy (or any other man Semitism’ is now – albeit situation in Palestine for Windfall is an award-winning television or woman on the left) as incorrectly – part of the fear of being labelled anti- production company, with a reputation for party leader. They reject the mainstream narrative. The Semitic. This is especially creating innovative and distinctive huge mandate he received Jewish Board of Deputies is important now as, on 30 documentaries that are strong in storytelling from the membership and presented as representative March, 16 Palestinians were and embody the company’s core values – trade unions. Anti- of Jewish people in general killed and more than 750 integrity and respect. Semitism is a convenient when some are Tory injured for daring to Windfall works with broadcasters such as stick with which to publicly donors. Counter balancing protest at the fence that the BBC, C4, PBS, the Discovery Channel, and self-righteously beat voices of Jewish socialist effectively makes Gaza an National Geographic, and the History Channel. the man, who many have to groups within the labour open air prison. One of our most recent shows was The Fifteen thank for retaining their movement who reject the This branch stands Billion Pound Railway about the Crossrail seats in 2017. The smears and support Jeremy united with Jeremy Corbyn construction project for BBC2. shallowness and insincerity are given very little as Labour leader, with the Frances Kendall , Windfall Films, One of their new found concern coverage. Palestinian people in Underwood Row, Hoxton, London, N1 7LQ is clear when we see them Third, an aggressive pro- their struggle, and with on demonstrations with Israel lobby wants to Jewish people everywhere Wellington was just as bad such noted anti-racists and delegitimise criticism of who are the victims of progressives as Norman Israel’s treatment of the anti-Semitism. I have just read Keith Richmond’s article about Tebbit and Ian Paisley Jr. Palestinian people. That the Northern Line North Winston Churchill ( Journal , March) who was And there was Chukka possible next Prime branch comparable with the Duke of Wellington. Both were members of the aristocracy and both had nothing but utter contempt for the ordinary rights for ordinary people. Fearing for his own quoting the Holy Name of Our Lord and citizen. The so-called hero of Waterloo, who safety, Wellington, an aristocrat opposed to Saviour Jesus as a swear word or exclamation described his own soldiers as ‘scum’, would ordinary people being taught to read and in an Off the Rails item in March quoting Elton have lost that battle had the Prussian army not write, remained on the train. John: ‘Lionel Richie didn’t make an album or turned up at the last moment. On the opening Denis A Lewis , retired Exeter driver play a show for 10 years and I said to him once, day of the Liverpool & Manchester Railway, the “What have you been doing?” and he said world’s first passenger line, Wellington, now “Playing golf”. Christ! That’s a lot of f***ing golf!’ Prime Minister, was met in Manchester by a Take not His name in vain This is a serious violation of the Third hostile crowd, who rightly considered him a I am appalled at your vacuous excuse to Eric Commandment and comes with the following tyrant standing out against the most basic Stuart’s complaint about the ASLEF Journal warning – Thou shalt not take the name of the

20 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 Classified Advertisements

CLASS 308 NSERS badge to raise funds for the preservation of the last complete Phase One Remembering Wally oakes 4 CIG train 1753. £6 inc p&p from NSERS, 41 Highfield Road, Ipswich, With reference to the article about Wally Suffolk, IP1 6DD. Cheques payable to Network Oakes and Gwilym Roberts ( Journal , South East Railway Society. February) I knew Wally well. He was a real SOUTH WESTERN treasure, an inspiration to all who knew him, a Suburban 707 limited edition lovely lad, the only George Cross holder with 35x30mm enamel badge £5 + not one but two medals, and we should all be £1 p&p from Martin proud of his memory. Thompson (Wimbledon Park) Wally was lying in an unmarked grave at St email [email protected] Matthew’s Church, Haslington, Cheshire, until a headstone, paid for by a group of BRITISH RAIL driver railwaymen, was dedicated on 1 February this lanyards with safety clip. year. Photographs of Wally are very rare; this £5 plus £1.50 p&p (same p&p cost for more than one I enclose for the Journal shows Wally on one). Paypal [email protected] his wedding day. Wally and dorothy oakes on Phil Pepper , Nantwich, Cheshire their wedding day CLASS 15 locomotive (D8233) enamel badge on sale to raise funds for restoration of the sole surviving Class 15 loco by the Class 15 Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold in the Locomotive Journal between September Preservation Society. £5 + £1 p&p him guiltless that taketh his name in vain and December 1927 when he exchanged from Ipswich driver Clive Whiting. Payment can (Exodus 20:7). I am sick of the Journal ’s rabid arguments with Labour MP Walter Monslow. be sent via PayPal to [email protected] anti-Christian, anti-Israel, pro-abortion, pro- Any information would be gratefully received. Palestinian leanings – you’ve lost your focus – My email address is ASLEF BRANCH 111 set your eyes on your members’ jobs and keep [email protected] ASLEF branch 111 is 111 them there! Repent, for none are promised Glyn Roberts years old and has a limited tomorrow. edition numbered badge to Andrew Burton , Metropolitan line driver, Thank you for your help celebrate the introduction of Harrow depot the Class 387 on KL services. £7.50 inc p&p from Ian Beecroft and his family would like to say a Mark Steele,1 Rosecroft, South Wootton, King’s massive thank you to all the branches up and Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 3WX. Pop in to see Tommy Farr down the UK who contributed to his appeal WOKING branch 50 year Irene and I managed to catch up with retired and to the GS Mick Whelan and the EC for help commemorative badge. Euston driver Rodney ‘Tommy’ Farr for an hour from the hardship fund. Ian would also like to Slam door & Class 455. £6 during our recent visit to the UK. He is now in thank DO5 Nigel Gibson and Steve Wilson, + £1 p&p each. Contact care at Room 14, Blowerfield Court, business council rep, Freightliner Intermodal, [email protected] Broadwood Close, High Lane, Stockport. Tom for their professionalism and help through a does not have a phone (the care home difficult time. THREE BRIDGES branch strike number is 01663 721464) or computer, and is Lee Barber , Ipswich branch secretary badge 2016/17. £5 inc p&p (proceeds not independently mobile. He has an eye to charity) from Paul Eden (branch operation planned and told us that Virgin secretary) email [email protected]). trains had visited him and taken his first class PROFESSIONAL ENGRAVING pass off him. Tommy would welcome visitors if Memories of Parkeston at sensible prices. I can engrave anything you have the time. you wish, such as the ASLEF logo on David Rollins , ex-top shed driver, and a the pint tankard. Contact Paul Potts by friend of Tommy Farr since 1956, Brisbane, email at [email protected] Australia KIRKDALE 121 limited edition centenary badge 1917-2017 price Toton fireman Cecil Rooke £7.50 inc p&p from branch I have been doing some research into my secretary Keith Devling. Call maternal grandfather, Cecil Wilfred Rooke, a 07933 144768 or email fireman at Toton, and ASLEF official. He was [email protected] born at Long Eaton, in Derbyshire, in 1902 so BESPOKE CUSHIONS Hand probably entered railway service at Long made 40cm square cushions of Eaton/Toton between 1916 and 1919. By 1927 This photo shows Dick Hardy on his last railway engines and carriages. £50. he was a fireman. There are references to him visit to the Parkeston branch lunch at Call Abi on 07954 659849 or email me at Parkeston Railway Club on 12 August [email protected] 2015. On the left is Sid Pease, then Dick, CLASS 40 Dave Pizzie and David Lubbock. I am not an ASLEF Preservation Society high quality enamel badges Further to the obituary in the member – I just went along to take a £5.50 each or £10 for both (50p Journal in March here’s a photo picture – but our number two son is now a p&p for one badge or £1 for of Stratford stalwart Dave senior driver at Clacton. Dick entered the both) email [email protected] or Pizzie – a loyal, respected, and plant as part of the 1940-41 entry; I was in text 07788 240088. principled man – receiving his the 1943-44 entry and somewhere in ASLEF certificate. between was Peter Townend. To advertise please phone 020 7324 2400 John Thorpe , Stratford Douglas Brown , Harwich, Essex or send an email to [email protected]

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 21 last Word Thatcher sank the Belgrano to stay in power

KEITH RICHMOND looks at some of the books for spring that have dropped on the ASLEF Journal desk at head office

on the write Godwin, her mother the pioneering feminist lines: Conan Mary Wollstonecraft – she eloped at 16 with doyle, Fiona the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, who was Sampson, already married, travelling across Europe with Richard him, and famously writing Frankenstein after a Westwood, house party with Shelley, Byron, and John ted Wilson, Polidori on the shores of Lake Geneva. david Ross ‘Scotland came into the modern world on and laura railway tracks,’ claims David Ross. Well, up to a Shapiro point, Lord Copper. Up to a point. If you ignore the Scottish Enlightenment, which dragged not just Scotland, but Britain, into the modern PY novels and political thrillers are ‘Stories of her appalling rudeness, often world, and pre-dated the passenger railway by ten a penny – look along the shelves whisky-fuelled, were common currency in 100 years. ‘Each time you step on a train you S at Waterstone’s, WH Smith or your Whitehall’; ‘The PM had been told there were extend the continuity of a colourful strand in public library – but very few are as good as two options – do a sovereignty deal with the national story.’ That, at least, is true and in South Atlantic Requiem (Arcadia, £14.99) which Argentina or budget to defend the Falklands. Getting the Train: The History of Scotland’s is especially thoughtful, elegantly written, Thatcher had chosen to do neither’; and Railways (Stenlake Publishing, £10) he tells the thoroughly researched and, at times, brutally ‘Thatcher needed to sink the Belgrano to stay story of the Scottish nation – and the Scottish realistic. That might be because Edward Wilson in power’. railway – from the first rail promoters in the has an interesting background. He was born in 1840s to ScotRail today. Baltimore, served with the Green Berets in ‘Shakespeare wasn’t above ye olde cut and Richard Westwood, a retired teacher, Vietnam, where he won a Bronze Star, after paste job – witness “Ye elves of hills, former Mayor of Leominster, and Labour Party which he renounced his US citizenship and brooks, standing lakes” in The Tempest , a candidate at the 1997 general election, re- worked as a labourer at a shipyard in Germany straight steal from Arthur Golding’s much- examines The Hixon Railway Disaster (Pen & before moving to Britain, where he taught at ‘ consulted translation of Ovid’s Sword Books, £19.99) when, at a newly- Lowestoft College and was an active trade Metamorphoses .’ – Dominic Cavendish , installed half-barrier robot level crossing in unionist, and Anti-Nazi League member, Sunday Telegraph Staffordshire, 11 people died and 45 were before becoming a writer. injured in 1968. Richard’s father Jack was one He has written a well-regarded novel about Arthur Conan Doyle is best known for the four of the railway workers whose quick thinking Vietnam, A River in May , as well as five first class novels and 56 short stories he wrote featuring helped prevent a similar tragedy when a low Cold War thrillers – The Envoy , The Darkling Spy , the pipe-smoking Baker Street ‘consulting loader from the same haulage firm, Wynn’s, The Midnight Swimmer , The Whitehall Mandarin detective’ Sherlock Holmes but he knocked out grounded on a level crossing at Leominster in and A Very British Ending – and now turns his more than 200 books – about pirates, boxers Herefordshire in 1966. He concludes that attention to the months leading up to the war and imperial adventures – as well as poems, lessons that should have been learned from over the Falkland Islands, which the Argentines plays and pamphlets in a prolific career. that near-miss would have prevented the call Las Malvinas. Gothic Tales (Oxford World’s Classics, £9.99) fatalties at Hixon. is a collection of 34 stories originally published ‘Writers, by nature, are more observers in periodicals such as the Strand Magazine , ‘It ain’t whatcha write, it’s the way atcha instead of participators.’ Cornhill Magazine , The Idler , and Harper’s , write it.’ – Jack Kerouac – Ian Hunter and shows there was more to Conan Doyle than Moriarty, Dr Watson and The Hound of ‘Tell me what you eat,’ wrote the French lawyer, ‘Ted’s central character William Catesby – as the Baskervilles . ‘politician and philosopher Jean Anthelme with the best characters in books by John le Frankenstein , the archetypal Gothic novel, Brillat-Savarin, ‘and I shall tell you what you are.’ Carré and Len Deighton, calling him a hero was first published – by Lackington, Hughes, What She Ate by Laura Shapiro (4th Estate, might be stretching it – is a working-class Harding, Mavor & Jones; publishing houses £14.99) examines the lives of six women – grammar school boy from Suffolk, not have gone for shorter names since then – in Dorothy Wordsworth, Rosa Lewis, Eleanor politically sympatico with his public school 1818, hence the glut of articles, programmes Roosevelt, Barbara Pym, Helen Gurley Brown colleagues in the Secret Intelligence Service, and books about the monster and his critics. and, er, Eva Braun – through what they cooked who remembers a conversation with an ex- In Search of Mary Shelley by Fiona Sampson and ate, for themselves and for others, in six Tory minister comparing Margaret Thatcher (Profile Books, £18.99) looks at the rich and entertaining essays which reveal as much with Eva Peron. ‘The difference, he confided, is fascinating life of the woman who wrote the about how women’s roles have changed, at that the “shirtless ones” who voted for Thatcher book. Brought up in a radical household – her least in North America and Western Europe, as will remain shirtless.’ Other pearls include father was the novelist and journalist William about the food on our plates.

22 The ASLEF Journal l May 2018 Across down on track Prize Crossword 1 Butterfly whose 1 Capital of Denmark larvae eat greens 2 Whereabouts in Crossword 145 by tom Williams (7, 5) relation to points of 7 Zigzag fold of hair a compass ET TU, BRUTE? 8 Sluggish 3 Female movie star HEN David Calder, wearing a 10 Old local 4 Spring Christian leather USAF flying jacket, and authority charge festival W red baseball cap, which he 11 Commotion 5 Sound a goose cheerfully tosses into the crowd, pump- 13 Scamp makes primed by Mark Antony and an 15 Eighth month 6 A pair aggressively loud four-piece rock band, 17 Corn or maize 9 New Zealand strides on stage (in processional pomp on 18 Mournful song capital the way to the Forum, according to 19 Nozzle 12 Neck of mutton Shakespeare and Plutarch) it is clear that 21 Complain and (5, 3) Nicholas Hytner’s stunning new modern grumble 14 Mathematics dress production of Julius Caesar – with 22 Fruit and veg using symbols not a toga in sight – is going to mine the enterprise (6, 6) 16 Object at which rich topical seam of 21st century politics. marksman aims This Caesar – more charismatic crowd- 18 Pack of cards pleaser than despotic dictator – is not 20 Eggs Solution to Crossword 144 Donald Trump, as such, or even George W Across : 1 Addict 7 Laird 8 Half-time 9 Apple Bush – in fact Hytner says it’s about ‘an 10 Duct 12 Army 13 Apex 14 Duty 15 Oslo out-of-touch elite’ – but the signifiers are 17 Etch 19 Pasta 20 Cinnamon 21 Teeth Name...... clear, as they are in the second half, after 22 Exists down : 1 Aphid 2 Delicatessen 3 Thirty Caesar has been killed by the conspirators, 4 Pleat 5 Hippopotamus 6 Adieux 11 Try 13 Ale and Rome disintegrates into a bloody civil Address...... 14 Deputy 15 Orange 16 Yacht 18 Hands war here dressed up to look like the Balkans...... Congratulations to James lavery , of hemel hempstead , ...... hertfordshire , who was last month’s winner. The winner of this month’s Prize Crossword will ...... receive Marks & Spencer vouchers to the value of £25 ...... l You can see more of Tom Williams’s Crowd control in turbulent times: crosswords, word games and puzzles at Postcode...... Fairley, Morrissey, Whishaw and Calder wordgames.co.uk Hytner’s production at The Bridge Theatre in London is fast, fluid and Thanks for all your responses to the 144th prize crossword in the April edition of the ASLEF fabulous. It stars Ben Whishaw as Brutus, Journal . If you successfully complete this month’s crossword please send the solution to the David Morrissey as Antony, Michelle Editor, ASLEF Journal , 77 St John Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1M 4NN by 14 May Fairley as Cassius, and Calder as Caesar, and is played in the round, with a couple of hundred spectators, groundlings at The Globe, standing, not seated, cast off the ASLEF’s legal services cuff in a collective role as the fickle, and manipulated, Roman mob. If you are being harassed at work, bullied or discriminated against, and Tip the hat to production designer if your local, branch or district rep is unavailable, call the industrial Bunny Christie, too. As the mob we move relations department at union headquarters (020 7324 2400) or email around players who enter, argue, plead, [email protected]. If you are arrested or interviewed by police and need cajole, bully, bribe, and harangue – legal assistance – day or night – call the members’ emergency hotline on sometimes each other, sometimes us – on 0800 587 7530. ASlEF also provides first class legal advice free for a series of ramps and platforms that rise members and dependents. and fall. It makes for a visceral evening at the theatre – dropping to the floor when Caesar is assassinated, by guns not knives, siding first against, and then for, Antony as we lend him our ears; and ducking again, caught in the crossfire as Antony and Changed your address? Please let us know! Just fill in this form Octavius, in what is after all an Elizabethan Name...... revenge tragedy, emerge victorious over Brutus and Cassius at the Battle of Philippi. Address...... Julius Caesar is a play about passion and populism; democracy, demagoguery, ...... reason and rational debate. Hytner’s new Postcode ...... Telephone...... production – that holds, as ’twere, the mirror up to nature – is a version for our Branch...... Membership No...... times which shows that the play has rarely been more relevant. Please return coupon to: ASLEF, 77 St John Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1M 4NN Keith Richmond

May 2018 l The ASLEF Journal 23 JOIN US FOR THE MAR CH & RALL Y SA TURD AY 12 M AY 20 18 Assemble 1 1am at Vic tor ia Embank men t, L ondon (bet ween Hunger for d Br idge and Blackfr iars Br idge)