Three generations, one railway: c2c celebrates Alan Mann’s half-century of service
A half-century of service on Britain’s railways has been marked by c2c Railway, as driver Alan Mann was formally recognised for reaching 50 years in the industry.
The milestone was celebrated at c2c’s Shoeburyness depot, where colleagues gathered to honour Alan’s long career. He was welcomed by Hannah Watson, c2c Head of Drivers, and Colin North, c2c Driver Depot Manager, with cakes and sweet treats laid on for the occasion. As part of the celebration, Alan was presented with a commemorative pin badge, while photographs and personal railway memorabilia were displayed to reflect his journey on the rails.
Alan’s career began in November 1975 at Stratford depot, where he started work as a cleaner. Within a year he progressed to the role of fireman and driver’s assistant, before training on steam boilers in 1977. In February 1981, he qualified as a driver, later moving to Tilbury Riverside depot before transferring onto electric Class 302 units. Since 1984, Shoeburyness has been his base, during which time he has witnessed major changes in railway operations and technology.
Railways run deep in Alan’s family history. He represents a third generation of railway workers, following both his father and grandfather into the industry. His grandfather began work around 1916, at the height of the First World War, and enjoyed a lengthy railway career. Alan’s father joined the railway in around 1946 and retired in 1993 after 47 years’ service. Together, the family’s contribution amounts to well over a century on the railway, spanning more than half of the passenger railway’s existence in the UK.
Among the items Alan brought along to the event was his grandfather’s First World War War Permit, dated 1916 and still bearing traces of coal dust. He also shared photographs from his father’s retirement celebrations in 1993, alongside images of himself working with colleagues in 1977, offering a rare personal insight into generations of railway life.
c2c Managing Director, Rob Mullen, said:
“What can be said about Alan and his incredible achievement? To be a part of the railway for fifty years is utterly astonishing and everyone at c2c (including myself) is in awe of the vast experience he has amassed. As 2025 is the year that the UK celebrates Railway 200, stories like Alan’s are a reminder of how amazing the railway really is. The railway has a great legacy of generational workers and Alan’s family is one of the absolute best examples of that. To not just mark 50 years of service but to make a generational impact of over 100 years alongside his father and grandfather shows the dedication and longevity of the railways and how it has been a constant through modern British history.”
Driver, Alan Mann, said:
“It is amazing to reach 50 years in the railway and I was delighted to bring these pictures of my father and grandfather today. When I look back on it, the time has gone by so quickly and I have been amazed by the changes I have seen over the years.”
Colin North, c2c Driver Depot Manager, added:
“I’ve loved hearing about Alan’s experience and stories from his past, he’s been a friendly and welcoming colleague that always has time to stop, chat and share a few laughs with. A true railwayman!”
Image: c2c