Unions pay tribute to driver and guard and launch appeal to help families
Rail unions quickly paid tribute to Driver Brett McCullough and Conductor Donald Dinnie, even before the police had officially named them.
Kevin Lindsay, an ASLEF official in Scotland, said of Driver McCullough: “He was a dedicated train driver who loved his job and was very popular at the depot with his colleagues. He was also a devoted family man who loved his wife and children - two girls and a boy. Brett thought the world of his family, and we all thought the world of him.”
RMT Senior Assistant General Secretary Mick Lynch said: “On behalf of the union, I want to send condolences, support and solidarity to Donald Dinnie’s family, friends and colleagues.
“It is absolutely clear that he was much loved and highly respected by all who knew him and his death is a tragedy that has shocked our entire industry. We share the grief of those who were close to Donald.
“Donald’s branch, Aberdeen 1, have told me that he was an amazing person. He lit up every room he walked into with his cheery banter and stories. Many knew Donald for most of his railway career as a driver and a guard. He was very much a family man and a valued, active and proud member of the RMT. His loss has cast a long shadow over his branch, his region and the whole national union.”
Police Scotland published a family tribute to Christopher
Stuchbury: “Chris was a muchadored husband, son, dad, stepdad, grandad, brother and uncle and was a treasured and loved friend to many, including the Targe Towing Team where he was an integral and valued member of staff. He also volunteered at Roxburghe House in Aberdeen during his spare time, which he thoroughly enjoyed doing.”
Both unions have launched appeals to raise funds to help the families of those who died.