Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Heart of Gold Awards, a unique accolade decided entirely by the railway community. These awards recognise the dedication, compassion, and outstanding contributions of exceptional railway workers.
The awards were presented by Pete Waterman OBE, Charity President and Jo Kaye, CEO of RBF, at a ceremony kindly hosted by Railpen at their new London offices.
Jo Kaye, CEO of RBF, commented, “These awards are a recognition chosen by the rail community itself. It is a genuine, peer-to-peer acknowledgement where our front-line colleagues take the opportunity to celebrate and offer a simple ‘thank you’ to those around them who quietly make an outstanding difference every day”.
The RBF is grateful to everyone who participated in the voting process and helped recognise these deserving superstars.
Rising Star Award – Sponsored by Furrer+Frey
Zoe Flannagan joined as a Health and Wellbeing Coordinator at Avanti West Coast during a challenging time, quickly gaining expertise through Mental Health First Aid and Health Coach training to compassionately manage the company’s wellbeing program.
Rail Hero Award – Sponsored by Freightliner
Chris Bray, a Direct Rail Services Train Driver spotted a woman in distress and immediately stopped the train, blocking the line for safety. Showing immense courage and compassion, his crucial actions held the scene and allowed the BTP to lead the woman to safety.
Wellbeing Champion Award – Sponsored by Health Shield
Samantha Passmore, a Customer Experience Manager at West Midlands Trains is recognised for her exceptional safeguarding leadership. She established a dedicated, rent-free Safeguarding Hub run by Rethink Mental Illness for vital mental health support at the station.
Star Team Award – Sponsored by Amaro
The organisers of the Greatest Gathering curated the defining flagship event for the Railway 200 celebrations, marking two centuries of the modern railway. Held at Alstom’s Derby factory, the sold-out festival drew over 40,000 visitors. The event received international media coverage (reaching over 500 million) and raised thousands for charity.
Inspirational Volunteer Award – Sponsored by Great British Rail Replacement/CMAC Group
Don Coffey, a recently retired Train Driver at TransPennine Express runs a highly successful YouTube channel featuring driver’s-eye views, with all proceeds donated to various charity’s, totalling more than £83,000. He participated in the Samaritans’ ‘Small Talk Saves Lives’ and volunteers his time for driver simulator days and group escorts.
Lifetime Achievement Award – Sponsored by Railpen
Jennifer Williams based at the Booking Office Liverpool Street Station for Northern has dedicated 60 years to the railway and her knowledge and passion for passengers have made her an invaluable asset. Her ability to embrace innovation and adapt over six decades while maintaining the highest values is extraordinary.
By recognising and celebrating these individuals, RBF aim to inspire and motivate future generations of railway people.
To find out more on the 2025 Heart of Gold winners: https://www.railwaybenefitfund.org.uk/news/rbf-announce-2025-heart-of-gold-award-winners/
Get involved in 2026 Heart of Gold Awards: fundraising@railwaybenefitfumd.org.uk
