Hi all,

To celebrate my retirement on the 2nd of January 2026, I'm raising money for upReach. So, don't contribute to any collection, contribute to my charity page. I'll be cycling the Celtic trail but starting at Lydney and finishing at Fishguard. I'll be doing it analogue (without a battery). I'll be taking in our maintenance depots on the way (Sorry Canton, you're too far off the cycle trail). Hopefully I'll see you for a cup of tea. I have benefited from 42 years of meaningful employment with some great people and I want to celebrate this.

Access to employment is something I feel is even more important today. The route to productive work seemed straight forward when I left school at 16. Now, those without the support structures of more connected communities and families, struggle to make that first step. I've had 42 good years within rail and I want others to feel that support and sense of community that I have had. This has been essential to my career and wellbeing.

upReach is an award-winning social mobility charity, driven by a vision of a society in which everybody has an equal opportunity to realise their full career potential regardless of social background. Founded in 2012, They have grown from supporting 39 students to over 3,000, helping them access and sustain top graduate jobs every year.

They work in close partnership with leading employers and universities to support students from across the UK. Through 1-to-1 support and employability-boosting interventions, we empower students to discover a variety of career options, and develop the vital employability skills, networks and experiences needed to succeed in their chosen career and beyond.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.