Marvin OnumonuTwo Network Rail employees have been recognised in HM The King’s Birthday Honours list for their work supporting young people and safety.
Steve Scrimshaw, who joined Network Rail as a non-executive director last year, received a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
Donna Mitchell, senior media relations manager in the national communications team, has received a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to safety for young people.
Mike Mitchell, field technical support engineer in the route services function, has also received a BEM for his voluntary work with young people.
Donna Mitchell has led public safety campaigns for over a decade, including Harrison’s Story, a film made with the Ballantyne family after the loss of 11-year-old Harrison Ballantyne.
The campaign reached more than two million people and contributed to a 62% drop in child trespass and a 24% fall in incidents in targeted areas.
Donna Mitchell has also brought together rail organisations to share safety materials and support frontline staff.
She said: “On getting this news I experienced a wave of emotion: surprise, gratitude and a little bit of embarrassment – mainly because I feel a little underserving of being singled out for an honour when everything I’ve achieved would not have been possible without the help of others.
“It is also a bit discomforting being the subject rather than author of a press release!
“This recognition reflects the collective effort of my colleagues who have enabled and supported me in spreading the rail safety message far and wide, and of people like Liz Ballantyne—who lost her son Harrison—who selflessly share their stories time and again to ensure that others do not suffer as they have.”
She added: “I’m thankful to each and every one of them and am proud for our work to be recognised in this way.”
Alongside a 35-year career at Network Rail, Mike Mitchell set up Hull Kung Fu with his wife, supporting hundreds of young people facing challenges such as drug misuse and mental health issues.
He has also worked on projects to reduce railway crime, raise suicide prevention awareness, and help young people into careers, with some former students now working in policing or running their own businesses.
He started Hull and East Yorkshire Villagers at War to preserve local history, and more recently founded Developing Minds to introduce young people to engineering and railway telecoms.
Mike Mitchell said: “I really wasn’t expecting this, but I’m so grateful to everyone who’s supported our voluntary organisations over the years.
“It’s been amazing to see how people’s lives have changed for the better during my 23 years of volunteering — and even more inspiring to watch them go on to help others too.”
Scrimshaw said: “Firstly, huge congratulations go to my Network Rail colleagues, Donna and Mike, for this very well deserved recognition of their fantastic achievements.
“Reflecting on my personal journey from a 16-year-old apprentice at the Parsons Works in Newcastle to today receiving this incredible accolade, I am truly humbled.
“This honour is a testament to the countless colleagues, partners, friends and incredible businesses who have helped along the way.”
Sir Andrew Haines, chief executive of Network Rail, said: “I’d like to pass on huge congratulations to Donna and Mike on being awarded their BEMs – a truly fitting recognition of the remarkable impact they’ve had on communities across the country.
“Their dedication and achievements are greatly appreciated.
“I’m delighted that Steve Scrimshaw’s outstanding contributions to the transport and energy sectors have been acknowledged.
“His work has left a lasting legacy, and this honour is a testament to that.”
