Worker retires after three decades service

Robert (Bob) Harpham joined in Alpha Rail, in Kirkby in Ashfield, 1985 as a 34 year old and there is not much he has not turned his hand to on the shop floor - machine operator, saw operator and latterly a fork lift driver.

Bob was rewarded for his long service with a shop floor presentation from all his work colleagues who had arranged a collection to buy him some whisky and gift vouchers to spend in his retirement.

In his leaving speech, Bob thanked everyone and said: “Working at Alpha Rail for over 30 years had been easy because everyone has made it such an enjoyable experience.”

He reminded his colleagues that Alpha Rail is all about the people.

He added: “Success, like failure, is a collective thing and not determined by any one individual.

“Please look out for one another, and that way, Alpha Rail will be able to celebrate many more milestone anniversaries.”

Bob loves music, films and live concerts and hopes to fully enjoy his leisure time and keep active doing voluntary work for local communities and charitable groups.