STAFF who have notched up more than 25 years of long service were treated to a special lunch at Makeney Hall, Derbyshire, when they took part in East Midlands Trains’ first long service and retirement celebration.

Longest-serving group member was Nottingham-based senior conductor Clive Kirkham, who was retiring after 50 years’ railway service.

Roger Walton, safety director since 2004, retired after having spent nearly 40 years in the industry.

He joined BR as a guard in 1969, and during his career worked as driver, inspector, freight supervisor and train crew manager.

East Midlands Trains managing director Tim Shoveller, who hosted the event, said: “We are very fortunate to have so many long-serving staff who can draw on many years’ railway experience.”