In an business usually perceived as being pushed by infrastructure and equipment, the human component stays undeniably essential. Few exemplify this higher than 85 yr previous Siggy Cragwell BEM, a station assistant at Elstree & Borehamwood, and Thameslink’s oldest worker.
In an business usually perceived as being pushed by infrastructure and equipment, the human component stays undeniably essential. Few exemplify this higher than 85 yr previous Siggy Cragwell BEM, a station assistant at Elstree & Borehamwood, and Thameslink’s oldest worker.
His whose exceptional dedication and repair to the railway have lately culminated in a unprecedented honour: a tune written about him by multi-award-winning folks legend Richard Thompson OBE.
This distinctive tribute underscores the profound influence a person can have throughout the rail sector.
Siggy’s profession is a testomony to unwavering dedication. By 2019, he had already devoted 57 years to the railway, celebrating his eightieth birthday as an Elstree & Borehamwood platform star. His longevity and constant wonderful customer support haven’t gone unnoticed.
Siggy with musician Richard Thompson
In September 2020, on the age of 80, Siggy received a serious nationwide rail award for his excellent contribution in serving to passengers. This recognition was swiftly adopted by a second Lifetime Achievement Award in January 2022, introduced by the Railway Profit Fund and its president, 80s music mogul Pete Waterman, when Siggy was 82.
These accolades spotlight a profession outlined by going above and past for the travelling public, a transparent demonstration of the paramount significance of the human connection in customer support.
Past his day by day duties, Siggy has additionally performed a big position in connecting the railway with the broader group. At 83, he recorded bite-sized recollections with the BBC to show 5–7-year-olds about how the railway has modified through the years, showcasing his dedication to educating future generations.
In June 2022, Siggy was a visitor of honour on the unveiling of the Nationwide Windrush Monument at Waterloo Station, the place he had the privilege of assembly the then Duke of Cambridge, Prince William. His participation in such a nationally important occasion underscores his standing not simply as a railway worker however as a revered group determine.
Siggy’s distinctive service acquired final recognition with the award of a British Empire Medal (BEM) within the King’s Birthday Honours for his unwavering dedication to the railway. This prestigious honour was formally introduced to him in November 2024, celebrating a profession marked by distinction and public service.
The story of Siggy Cragwell exemplifies the human component because the very coronary heart of the rail business. Whereas infrastructure and expertise are very important, it’s the devoted people who work together with passengers, keep companies, and foster group connections that really outline the railway expertise. The popularity prolonged to Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) station assistants as among the many finest in UK additional solidifies this level, highlighting a broader tradition of excellence in customer support.
The final word honour for Siggy got here this July, when the people ‘legend’ Richard Thompson OBE wrote a tune about him, which is now being aired on nationwide radio.
This distinctive creative tribute isn’t just a private commendation for Siggy, however a robust acknowledgement of the invaluable, usually unsung, contributions of individuals like him who dedicate their lives to public service within the rail business. It’s a poignant reminder that behind the schedules and stations, there are people whose dedication creates the true pulse of the railway.
Discover out extra about Siggy’s tune right here: Radio 2’s twenty first Century People 2025 – Canvas
