The Queen has honoured two ScotRail Alliance workers at the Hamilton West station for their contribution to the local community.
Angela Thomson and Neil Gaittens, who work at Hamilton West, attended the Queen’s summer garden party at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh this week. They had been invited by the Queen in recognition of their years of service.
Angela Thomson has worked at Hamilton West station for five years, while Neil Gaittens has been at the station for eight years.
Neil worked with the NHS through the Adopt-a-Station scheme to make Hamilton West a friendly environment for customers.
Some of the work includes getting benches and a garden beside the booking office, as well as supporting younger members of staff to develop their skills.
Angela Thomson said:
“What a day. To be invited by the Queen was a big honour.
“To be recognised for just doing our job is incredible.
“I enjoy my work, and doing my best to make sure customers feel comfortable when they come to Hamilton West station.”
Neil Gaittens said:
“I felt privileged to attend the Queen’s garden party.
“It was raining and cold but it did not dampen my spirits.
“I managed to see the royal party, who I thought I would never see. My wife and I had an unforgettable day.
“It was great to have my work recognised.”
Rob Shorthouse, The ScotRail Alliance’s Communications Director, said:
“To be invited to a garden party at Holyrood Palace by the Queen is a great honour, and a testament to Neil and Angela’s hard work.
“We are building the best railway Scotland has ever had and want our stations to be part of the local community, but we can only do that thanks to the dedication of our staff.”