Employees from train operator Avanti West Coast have been thanked for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic with a special reception in London at 10 Downing Street.

Avanti Train Manager Samuel Obiri-Yeboah and Avanti Train Driver Lyle Mitchell represented their colleagues at the event.

They were thanked for their hard work personally by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps and Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The event was held earlier this week and included many others from the transport sector who made essential journeys possible.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “All of the amazing people who work in transport deserve our profound thanks for keeping Britain moving throughout the pandemic.

“I’d like to say a special thanks to train manager Samuel Obiri-Yeboah and driver Lyle Mitchell at Avanti West Coast, who have shown such dedication, positivity and compassion.”

Lyle, based at Avanti West Coast’s Euston drivers’ depot, said: “It’s a great privilege to represent train drivers and my fellow colleagues at Avanti West Coast, as well as the rail industry in general, during such a difficult and challenging time for everyone.

“I feel proud to work for an industry where we have been able to keep the country moving, safely transporting key workers and those who need to travel.”

Samuel, also based at Euston, said: “I was really honoured to represent Avanti West Coast and meet wonderful people from all areas of transport. It was overwhelming to be part of this occasion and I will remember it forever.

“I love working with the public and supporting my colleagues. We’ve a responsibility to make sure our customers can travel safely and to have played a part in that has made me incredibly proud.”

Phil Whittingham, Managing Director at Avanti West Coast, said: “We are so proud of our people who have worked tirelessly during this period and continue to do so. They have made sure their fellow key workers and those making essential journeys have travelled safely. It’s great they’ve been recognised for that contribution.

“Lyle and Samuel are the perfect examples of how our people have conducted themselves professionally and with pride through such difficult circumstances. Both of them are excellent role models, as well as colleagues, and a credit to Avanti West Coast.”

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