A TransPennine Express (TPE) employee from Huddersfield has completed 25 years of service working for the company.

Amanda Wasp, 53, joined the rail industry in 1997 as an onboard train cleaner. She worked on the Manchester to Leeds route, making sure she kept the trains clean throughout their journey.

After three and a half years as a cleaner, Amanda transferred to Huddersfield, working as a Travel Advisor in the station’s Travel Centre where she is a much-respected member of the local team. In her job, Amanda provides travel information to customers, helps them to plan their journeys, and answers any queries they may have.

A few years ago Amanda participated in a fundraiser for the Macmillan cancer charity. She bravely had her head shaved on the station concourse to raise money for the charity and recalls how brilliant were the customers and colleagues who supported. Together, they raised more than £1300.

Amanda said:

“When I started all those years ago, I was very nervous! I had never been to the station before, but everyone was lovely. There are only three of us still here from when I originally started, and we’ve seen a lot of change over the years. I remember the station feeling very dull and having lots of rooms, it’s now been opened up to let in the light and feels much brighter.

“Over the years the station has become really busy. We’ve had TV stars and famous footballers coming through, then Covid hit, and suddenly we didn’t have anyone passing through for a while, it was quite eerie.

“I’d recommend anyone thinking of a career within the rail industry to go for it, it’s a great experience and no two days are the same.”

Angela Hunte, Huddersfield Station Manager for TransPennine Express, said:

“I remember Amanda from when she first started, I can’t believe it’s been 25 years. She has been an absolute pleasure to work with, nothing is too much trouble for her, and she is always willing to help both her colleagues and customers. Amanda is a very popular member of the team and on behalf of all at Huddersfield, I want to say huge congratulations to her on her silver anniversary.”

Chrissy Walsh, Travel Advisor at Huddersfield station, said:

“I’ve worked with Amanda for 19 years now. She has always been friendly, and polite and is a good friend, in and out of work. It’s lovely to know when you’re working with her that she will support you if needed and that we can have a laugh together, she makes the shift go quicker.”