New Year honours
Great Western Railway Managing Director Mark Hopwood has been awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in the 2021 New Years’ Honours.
Hopwood has worked for the railway for 31 years, since the age of 17. He has held numerous positions, most recently as interim managing director of South Western Railway - a role he has just left to return to his previous position as managing director at GWR.
“This is an honour that reflects the efforts of thousands of railway colleagues I have worked with throughout my 31-year career,” he said.
“The railway plays a part in the daily lives of millions, and I am very proud and delighted that my small contribution has been recognised in this way.”
Former Direct Rail Services Managing Director Deborah Francis was one of three railway staff to receive an OBE, in her case for services to women in the rail industry.
She was joined by Network Rail Group Safety and Engineering Director Martin Frobisher, for his work supporting the railway response to Coronavirus, the construction of the Nightingale hospitals, and supporting the Army reserves.
“I am so surprised and extremely grateful to be included in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list,” he said.
“This was a real team effort and there were many people throughout Network Rail who helped to deliver this, so I want to say a massive thank you to them. This award belongs to the whole team.”
NR Director of Diversity and Inclusion Loraine Martins also received an OBE, for her work to improve diversity throughout Network Rail and her voluntary work with the National Mentoring Scheme. She said that she “didn’t see this coming at all”, and thanked colleagues.
An MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) was awarded to NR
Project Operations Interface Specialist Shane Andrews, for his work improving inclusivity within the rail industry, particularly with the LGBT+ community.
Meanwhile, Railway Heritage Trust Executive Director Andy Savage received an MBE for services to the railway industry and heritage.
There were three recipients of the British Empire Medal: Translink Access Manager David Butler for services to public transport in Northern Ireland, and Transport for London’s Sharon Sear and Mat Sullivan.
The latter two - commercial manager and materials manager respectively at TfL - were awarded the BEM for services to transport in London during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The British Transport Police was also recognised in the New Year’s Honours, with Deputy Chief Constable Adrian Hanstock awarded the Queen’s Police Medal.
“The past year has presented some unimagined challenges,” he said.
“However, I am fortunate to work with some talented individuals and teams who every day dedicate their lives to protecting the public and seeking justice for those targeted by offenders, let alone tackle the extraordinary issues that 2020 presented.
“I would particularly like to acknowledge their exceptional professionalism and dedication to public service in accepting this award.”