Volunteer Recognition - Introducing “The General Managers’ Award”

As many of you will be aware, one of the main workstreams of the Volunteering Committee is to look at volunteer recognition. In addition to introducing further Long Service Awards for volunteers who have completed 10, 15 and 20 years service, to compliment the existing 25 years’ service awards, the committee have been looking at other ways to recognise the work of our amazing volunteers and are now introducing two new awards.

Launching this month we have a new quarterly award entitled “The General Manager’s Award”, which, as might be expected, will be presented by the General Manager to an individual who has gone above and beyond & has stood out from others in their efforts and achievements. Details of the other new award will be published in the next e-newsletter.

Robin Coombes, General Manager, says:

When I joined this railway in August 2022, I was immediately struck by the passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment of each individual I had the privilege to meet. The spirit of camaraderie and the collective pursuit of excellence are what make this railway truly exceptional.

I find myself reflecting on the countless extraordinary contributions made by each and every one of you. It is humbling to witness the tireless efforts and remarkable achievements of our volunteers. Your selflessness and dedication to preserving our heritage, serving our visitors, and building a vibrant future for the railway are truly remarkable.

I am reminded of the words of Henry Ford, who once said, "Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success." Indeed, it is your unity, passion, and unwavering support that fuels the success of the Kent & East Sussex Railway. Each volunteer embodies the true spirit of our railway, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors and ensuring the preservation of our cherished history.

It is with deep admiration and immense gratitude that I present the first General Manager's Award not to one individual, but to all volunteers.

Your hard work, friendship, and warm welcome to newcomers have made a lasting impression on everyone who steps foot onto this railway. Your dedication is the heartbeat of this organisation, and without your time and commitment, our beloved railway could not thrive as it does today. Each one of you is deserving of this recognition, and it is my hope that this award serves as a symbol of our collective achievements and shared journey.

I am honoured to lead a team of such extraordinary individuals, and I take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to each of you. Let us remember that it is your collective efforts, your shared passion, and your unwavering commitment that keeps the Kent & East Sussex Railway on track, day after day.

Your unwavering commitment and selfless contributions keep our locos running, our stations well presented, and our visitors enchanted. The memories you create, the stories you share, and the smiles you bring to the faces of young and old alike are a testament to the true spirit of the Kent and East Sussex Railway.

I want you to know that you are deeply valued and cherished. Your hard work, your enthusiasm, and your dedication do not go unnoticed. Without your passion, the wheels of our trains would cease to turn, and the magic of the railway and what it represents would fade away.

As we move forward, together, let us continue to preserve our cherished history, embrace the challenges ahead, and create a railway experience that touches the hearts of all who come to the railway. Your commitment and love for this railway inspire us all and reaffirm that we are truly one big family, bound by our shared passion.