Driver nominated for Abellio award

Greater Anglia driver Stuart Connell has been nominated by Abellio Group plc for Employee of the Year at the Abellio Achievement Awards, for his actions in April 2016’s collision with a tractor on Hockham Road level crossing.

Just before impact he applied the emergency brake and operated the horn up to the point of impact, injuring his hand.

Following the collision, he continued his duties, walking the train to reassure and look after its 135 passengers.

Greater Anglia Managing Director Jamie Burles said: “Stuart demonstrated a unique ability to put others’ safety before his own. He is a professional through and through, and understands his responsibility as a driver is to ensure the safety of his passengers.

“His dedication to his role really shone through and he prides himself on doing his job to the best of his ability.”