After almost 50 years on the railway, Alan Harvey has retired from working for Southern. He was given a send-off to remember at Brighton by 100 colleagues.

Alan started work back in 1971 as a ‘box boy’ working with a signaller.

After then working on the platforms he began working on board as a freight guard, passenger guard, conductor and then onboard supervisor with Southern.

100 passed and present colleagues gather at the Battle of Trafalgar pub to wish him a fond farewell.

The information boards at Brighton station also displayed a special notice to wish him well.

Alan, 65, who lives in Shoreham-by-Sea, said:

“I’m still emotional and overwhelmed. I had so many cards and presents. I was so surprised when all these people turned up at the pub to wish me farewell. They gave me a lovely send-off. I still can’t believe how many turned up.”

The self-confessed transport fanatic, whose mother and uncle also worked on the railway, added:

“All in all I have loved the job. It’s been quite an adventure and I have met some lovely people on the railway over the years. It’s been my life.”

Southern’s Brighton On-Board Service Manager Ciaran Moynan said:

“Alan was always passionate about the railways and walked into work with a smile on his face and will be remembered for his enthusiasm and dedication to his passengers. He has always been one of the true characters of the depot and quite the gentleman; loved by colleagues and customers alike. He will be sorely missed, but we all wish him the very best for the future and a happy retirement. Congratulations Alan on 49 years’ sterling railway service!”

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