Will Brexit affect your pension? · festival of steam with its Autumn Steam Spectacular between 7-9...

Staff travel updates from RSTL

Will Brexit affect your pension?

Your Letters

the newsletter for railway pensioners

AUTUMN/WINTER 2016

Enjoy a ‘Rail’ treat this autumn/winter

Financial reports roundup 2015

Penfriend | Autumn/Winter 2016 02

Pension news: in summary 3

Bereavement: a guide to pensions 5

Save pounds this winter 6

Our Helpline - here for you 7

Financial reports 2015 8

Staff travel updates 10

Today’s railways: the big picture 13

Eat well, stay hearty 14

PTCs: a force for health 15

Your Letters 16

Competition - who am I? 20

Contact us 20

Have you heard?Penfriend is available in audio format.

If you have difficulty reading and would like to receive a copy of Penfriend as an audio CD, please write to Penfriend, RPMI, Stooperdale Offices,Brinkburn Road, Darlington, DL3 6EH, or email [email protected], with your full name, address and pension reference number.

Trustee’s message...

JOHN CHILMAN Trustee Chairman

The front cover photograph shows a scene from Railway in Wartime, courtesy of North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Front cover

the newsletter for railway pensioners AUTUMN / WINTER 2016

Contents

Read Penfriend online at www.railwayspensions.co.uk and www.btppensions.co.uk. You’ll find it in Newsletters under Resources.

Hello to all our readers old and new.

I’m delighted to introduce the second newsletter of 2016…. and what a year it has been for pensions!

You probably already know that spring signalled a new era for the state pension, with a single-tier system introduced for ‘new’ pensioners retiring on or after 6 April this year.

These changes don’t affect your Rail pension payments but, if you’d like a quick, easy update about your state benefits, there’s lots of useful information at gov.uk/new-state-pension.

And then, of course, there was Brexit. While the experts are still debating the long-term implications, we look at how the UK’s decision to leave the EU may affect you as a pensioner on page 3.

2016 has also seen the start of discussions about the latest railway pension scheme valuations. These valuations are a financial ‘health check’ for the funding levels of each section in the RPS and BTPFSF, and are carried out every three years. The next actuarial valuation for the Railways Pension Scheme is due to be calculated as at 31 December 2016.

The valuations help the Trustee and employers decide whether the investments held by each section (the assets), together with future investment income on those assets, and money paid in (the contributions), will be enough to pay all the benefits to pensioners and other beneficiaries in the long term.

The calculations are based on many assumptions, such as how long people will live after they retire, and how our investments will perform in the future.

The results of the BTPFSF valuation as at 31 December 2015 are currently being discussed by the employer and the Trustee.

We’ve included a brief overview of key scheme statistics – such as contributions paid in, payments out, membership levels and investment returns – on pages 8 and 9.

You can see the full RPS Annual Report and Accounts for 2015 (the most up-to-date financial record) at railwayspensions.co.uk under Resources.

BTPFSF pensioners can view their Annual Report at btppensions.co.uk under Resources.

With very best wishes


EU referendumThe EU referendum and the UK vote to leave have dominated the news in recent months. You might be wondering what effect the result will have on pensions.

Most importantly, your Rail pension will continue to be paid as usual.

Although the timing and terms of a withdrawal from the EU may not be known for some time, it is expected that the result will influence pension developments in the future.

This is because there are many items of law which affect arrangements like the railway pension schemes and, as with other aspects of UK law, some of the laws are influenced or dictated by EU legislation.

In the short term, the UK remains a member of the EU and the various pension laws will remain in place, whether they are based on EU legislation or not.

In the longer term, once the UK exits from the EU, this may give the UK government the freedom to gradually amend legislation which has been influenced by Europe to date. However, a significant amount of EU pension-related legislation is also written into UK law.

There would need to be both a good reason and an appetite to amend this legislation as such changes cost time and money.

Consequently, in respect of these elements of EU legislation, there may not be any immediate or

significant reduction in legal requirements for UK pension schemes.

Furthermore, under current law, benefits built up to date - such as pensions which are already being paid - are protected from change and there is no indication that this will change.

So, for now, we do not expect Brexit to affect your Rail pension.

As a result of the referendum, there has been a significant government reshuffle. Any changes in pension policy resulting from this may become evident when the government delivers its Autumn Statement in late 2016.

We will, of course, keep you informed with news updates on railwayspensions.co.uk and btppensions.co.uk, and also in the next Penfriend.

Scottish taxationThe new Scotland Act 2016 is now law. This gives additional power to the Scottish Parliament to set income tax rates and thresholds.

As a result of these new powers, it is more likely that Scottish taxpayers in the railway schemes will be subject to different rates of income tax.

For example, for the 2017/18 year, it is expected that the 40% rate of income tax for Scottish taxpayers will apply at a lower level of earnings than those elsewhere in the UK, although this will not be confirmed until later this year.

in summaryPension news:


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This year’s annual gathering was as popular as ever.

Colleagues old and new, and from far and wide, gathered at Mowden Park Rugby Club, in Darlington, to enjoy a day of good natter and food.

Guest speakers included Derek Skingle, from Age UK, Ian Roden, from REPTA, John Harrison, of the BTPF, and Bob Gwynne, associate curator at the National Railway Museum, York.

Our thanks to everyone who contributed to the day’s success.

Penfriend Reader Discussion Group 2016

We’re on the WebHave you visited your Rail pension website yet?

It has a special Retired section where you can find lots of useful information to help you understand – and manage – your Rail pension benefits.

Learn more about your pension payments, what to do if you’re thinking about staying in work, and take part in our latest survey.

Take a look now...RPS pensioners - go to www.railwayspensions.co.uk

BTPFSF pensioners - go to www.btppensions.co.uk

The group pictured pitch-side at the club


Bereavemen t: a guide to applying for a Rail pensionWe fully appreciate that the loss of a loved one is a very traumatic time, and so we ask family or friends to tell RPMI about the death of a Rail pensioner as soon as they feel ready.

Bereavement:

Once RPMI has been informed, existing pensions will be stopped and new payments set up for beneficiaries.

A Rail pension may be payable to:

n A spouse

n Adult dependant

n Dependent children

The date of death and details about next-of-kin (including address and telephone number) must be provided when contacting RPMI.

You can contact us:

n by email - [email protected]

n by telephone - our specially trained Helpline staff are available on 0800 2 343434

n by letter - write to RPMI, PO Box 300, Darlington DL3 6YJ

What will we ask for?

RPMI will send a first letter of acknowledgment, asking for the death certificate. This must be the original certificate.

The letter will also include forms which are only sent out after notification of bereavement and are not available on your Rail pension website.

A spouse will be asked to fill in two forms:

n declaration of marriage form

n method of payment form

nand also provide their birth and marriage certificates, plus the spouse’s death certificate.

Dependants must complete:

n a claim form

n method of payment form

n and also provide a birth certificate.

Certificates and forms should be returned either in the stamped addressed envelope provided by RPMI, or by recorded delivery. All documents will be returned in the same way as received.

Lump-sum death benefits

If a lump-sum death benefit is payable, more information will be included in the letter of acknowledgement. If the death-benefit claimant is not a spouse/son/daughter, RPMI may need to see the funeral account receipts.

After the paperwork is done

RPMI will:

n Set up appropriate pension payments.

n Return certificates with a covering letter stating details of the start payment date and any backdated pension.

Pension payments

Pensions will be paid starting from the first day after the pensioner’s date of death. The first payment will include any backdated pension.

The pension will be paid every four weeks.

How long do payments last?

n A spouse will receive a pension for life

n Adult dependant pensions are reviewed after 10 years

n Dependent children will receive a pension up to the age of 18. This may be extended for life if the child is disabled or up to age 23 if they are in full-time education, subject to committee approval.

Extra help

Tax

Once RPMI has been informed of bereavement, an emergency tax code will be set up for beneficiaries’ payments, and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) will be informed.

However, it is the spouse or dependant’s responsibility to arrange the correct tax code with HMRC.

Contact the UK tax office on 0845 300 0627 and quote 083/BRX1.

Lost certificates

If a birth certificate has been mislaid, RPMI may accept a passport photocopy or a medical card showing date of birth. In some instances we will need to see the full original death certificate.

If the marriage certificate is lost, a solicitor’s sworn affidavit confirming the wedding date will be accepted.

Pension increases

If dependants are entitled to a pension increase, in line with the Rules, the rise is usually applied every April.


Meet your new Trustees

Two new Directors have joined the Trustee Board which looks after the effective operation of the railway pension schemes, including pension payments, investments and safe custody of assets.

Meliha Duymaz was appointed as a director of the Trustee Company in March 2016.

Meliha is the Finance Director for Anglia Route Network Rail. Before joining Network Rail in 2012, Meliha worked for a diverse range of organisations including Serco Plc in Docklands Light Railway Franchise Contract for Transport for London, Public Relations Group Hunstworth Plc, and as an auditor in Turkey.

Having spent 15 years as a finance professional in various industries, Meliha has extensive experience in franchising and bidding, outsourcing, Shared Service Centre operating models and financial and commercial management in complex organisations.

Meliha is a qualified chartered accountant with ACCA and holds an Economics & Business Administration degree from Marmara University in Turkey.

She said: “I’m looking forward to working as part of the RPS Trustee Board to help address the challenges facing pension schemes in the UK, and the RPS in particular so that we can continue to offer sustainable, affordable and secure pensions for all our members.”

Richard Jones was also appointed a director of the Trustee Company in March.

Richard’s railway career includes engineering, commercial and general management positions at BRB, Virgin, Alstom and AECOM, where he now leads UKI corporate real estate. He has been involved in the leadership and governance of the Scott Wilson Railways (now AECOM) RPS Section since 2007.

Richard is an IoD Chartered Director and MBA graduate, and has non-executive experience with a Police Authority, including leading on pensions matters.

He explained: “Our Penfriend readers already appreciate the financial importance of well-run pension arrangements such as the railway pension schemes, and I’m delighted to be able to contribute to their governance.

“I’ve been impressed by the professionalism of those I’m serving alongside on the Trustee Board and also by the committed team at RPMI, and I am confident we are well placed to handle the challenges that pension schemes will face in the years ahead.”

Save pounds this winter!5 energy saving tips: Insulating your loft, walls or floor could reduce your bills by up to £175 a year. If you’re over 70, speak to your energy supplier to see if you qualify for free insulation.

Turning your thermostat down by only one degree will save around £75 a year.

Put reflector panels behind your radiators to bounce 95 per cent more heat back into your room.

Shop around for fixed rate tariffs (make sure you check the small print, though, to make sure there are no penalties for cancelling or switching back to standard rates or another supplier).

Are you eligible to claim the winter fuel allowance? It’s worth between £100 and £300 tax-free to people who qualify. Telephone 03459 15 15 15 or visit gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment for details.

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Some energy providers offer support through grants to help cover arrears or help with buying items such as fridges or boiler repairs. Contact your provider directly for details.


Our Helpline - here for youWith Alison Todd, senior Helpline administrator at RPMI Stooperdale.

No two days are ever the same here on the Helpline at Stooperdale.

Even on an ‘ordinary’ day our team handles around 250 calls and this figure rises significantly when there’s an important update, such as the annual pension increase.

I originally applied to work on the Helpline because I’m a good talker – that was 14 years ago and I still enjoy my job because every day is a new day!

As well as handling calls, I do all the staff training, and after all these years, I think I know a little bit about everything to do with pensions.

We call ourselves a helpline rather than a contact centre because we don’t use pre-written scripts or set a time limit for each call. Our aim is to help the customer and treat them as an individual, no matter how long it takes.

I like the variety and the fact that you never know who is on the phone next. I particularly enjoy talking to the pensioners – for some, we may be the only voice they hear that day or even during the whole week.

Our most common pensioner queries are normally about changes of address or bank details, tax queries and benefits for beneficiaries.

However, the Helpline team does much more than just ‘answer the phone’. We process address/bank changes and handle complex correspondence from the Department of Work and Pensions. We also answer bereavement notification calls which, as you can

appreciate, can be difficult and need a lot of empathy and understanding.

Like the rest of the team, I have my own style and I try to relay the information in a way that’s easy to understand… no one likes jargon. I really enjoy that ‘lightbulb’ moment when I know I’ve helped someone understand their pension better.

Some callers do get confused about RPMI’s role – we get queries about everything from travel and disability aids, to a general moan about the state of the railways, but we’ll always point them in the right direction if we can.

Plus, at Christmas time, there’s usually a few calls from pensioners about using their new laptop gifts. I really like helping out if I can, for example, explaining the difference between an email and a website address.

I’m happy to say that we’re obviously doing something right! Helpline is the most popular channel of communication for members, and we achieved a 96% rating for the quality of our customer service in the last member survey. On a more personal level, the team always get lots of cards and goodwill messages at Christmas, which is nice.

If you’ve got a query, remember you can find lots of information at railwayspensions.co.uk or btppensions.co.uk or email [email protected] can also ring us on 0800 2 343434.

Alison is pictured with her Helpline colleagues at RPMI.


The 2015 Annual Reports for the railway pension schemes are out now. Here is a short summary of key figures from the schemes, plus investment returns.

Key figures from the 2015 Annual Reports

Net assets on 1 JANUARY 2015 3,590

INCOME

Contributions 19

Transfers in -

TOTAL PAID IN 19

EXPENDITURE

Pensions and other benefit payments 356

Transfers out 4

Administration expenses 4

TOTAL PAID OUT 364

Investment returns 152

Net assets on 31 DECEMBER 2015 3,397

£m1994 Pensioners Section£mRailways Pension Scheme (including 1994 Pensioners Section)


INCOME

Contributions 712

Transfers in 11

TOTAL PAID IN 723

EXPENDITURE

Pensions and other benefit payments 983

Transfers out 24


TOTAL PAID OUT 1,052

Investment returns 1,118

Net assets on 31 DECEMBER 2015 22,441

Pensioners - 140,366

Preserved pensioners - 106,793

Active members - 90,574

Pensioners - 80,414

Preserved pensioners - 33,645

Total membership at 31/12/15

337,733Total members


114,059Total members


You can view the full Annual Report & Accounts 2015 online or request a hard copy. Details below.

Download the RPS report and accounts at railwayspensions.co.uk (under the Resources tab).

Download the BTPFSF report and accounts at btppensions.co.uk (under the Resources tab).

Request a hard copy Email: [email protected] Write to: Customer Services, RPMI, PO Box 300, Darlington DL3 6YJ. (Please quote your pension reference number).


INCOME

Contributions -

Transfers in -

TOTAL PAID IN -

EXPENDITURE

Pensions and other benefit payments 28,105

Transfers out -



Investment returns 8,260 Net assets on 31 DECEMBER 2015 222,489

£’000British Railways Superannuation Fund (BRSF)

Net assets on 1 JANUARY 2015 1,037,881

INCOME

Contributions 39,168

Transfers in 5,284

TOTAL PAID IN 44,452

EXPENDITURE

Pensions and other benefit payments 50,337

Transfers out 1,320

Administration expenses 2,101


Investment returns 48,903

Net assets on 31 DECEMBER 2015 1,077,478

£’000British Transport Police Force Superannuation Fund (BTPFSF)

Normal Pensioners - 1,827

Dependent Pensioners - 1,236

Preserved pensioners - 2

Active members - 1

Pensioners - 2,756

Preserved pensioners - 695

Active members - 2,931


3,066Total members


6,382Total members

Staff travel updates:

for retired Safeguarded staff – from RSTL

Staff Travel Cards – use them correctly or lose them! We are all aware of the value of our staff travel facilities. However, despite frequent reminders on the correct procedure for using Staff Travel Cards, a few holders are running the risk of having their facilities withdrawn by not complying with the conditions of use. The following advice should help you and your dependants avoid a problem when making a free journey.

Please ensure all holders in your family read this.

Staff Travel Cards have a maximum number of occasions (boxes) of free travel available to the holder according to their entitlement. As such any attempt to alter, overwrite or erase a date already entered in a box is considered a breach of the conditions of use for which the penalty may be permanent withdrawal of all travel facilities from the holder (and if the prime cardholder, all holders in their family as well). This is irrespective of personal circumstances and the reason for making an alteration.

Staff Travel Cards must only be used by the holder named on the card and are only valid for leisure travel purposes. They must not be used for residential (travel to work or a place of education), duty, business or trading purposes.

To make a free leisure journey the boxes printed on the card are used as follows:

n Before passing through the station platform barrierthe day and month of travel must be entered neatly in ink (using a good quality ballpoint pen – pencil entries are not allowed) in the first available box (divided into sections marked as ‘DAY’ and ‘MTH’) on the card. Use Arabic numerals with a zero in front of single digits (i.e. for 7 August enter 08).

n The boxes must be used in numerical order.

n Each dated box allows unlimited free leisure travel on that day and up to midnight on the following day. For example a card dated for 7 August would also be valid for travel on 8 August. Additionally, the card may be used from 22h00 on the preceding day if making an overnight journey.

n If you make an error when entering a date, that allocation of free travel is forfeited. The box containing the incorrect date must be crossed through neatly with an ‘x’, and the correct date entered in the next box.

It is recognised that some holders encounter difficulties when entering dates on their Staff Travel Cards and there is no wish to see them fall foul of the rules because of this. If this applies to you ask a family member, friend or member of station staff to assist you, instructing them on the correct procedure for dating the card.

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ColchesterHarlow TownNorwichSouthend Victoria


Renewal of FIP International Reduced Rate Cards - 2017/2018 issueThe current 2015/2016 FIP International Reduced Rate Card expires on 31 December 2016.

2017/2018 cards (valid until 31 December 2018) will be despatched automatically to all holders of a 2015/2016 card in December 2016. As with all staff travel cards and passes, if you do not receive your card you must report this to RSTL within 3 months of the commencing date of the card (1 January 2017). A replacement fee of £15 per card will be charged if non-receipt is reported after 31 March 2017.

Enhanced privilege rate fares – extension of arrangementIn September 2014, the types of fare on which you may purchase a privilege rate ticket was expanded to include day and period walk-up Off-peak and Super Off-peak fares. This enhancement was introduced as the Train Operating Companies wished to provide access to increased UK discounted rail travel benefits to all staff travel holders. Continuation of the arrangement is subject to annual review.

The Train Operating Companies have agreed to a further extension to September 2017. The success of the arrangement will be evaluated again during 2017.

Gold and Silver Status Pass holders onlyThe current Gold and Silver Passes are smart enabled and may now been used to pass through the barriers of the following Abellio Greater Anglia (out boundary) stations:

BillericayBishops StortfordCambridgeChelmsford

Just tap your status pass on the pad at the barrier.

More station gatelines are due to be made available in due course. Details will be published on the RSTL website as soon as we are advised by the train operating company concerned.

Privilege rate concessions on Bluebell Railway The Bluebell Railway operates services between East Grinstead and Sheffield Park throughout the year. Its name is derived from the prolific displays of bluebells to be seen all along the line in the spring. It is normally open daily between April and October and at weekends between November and March. However, please note the railway will be shut from close of service on 2 January 2017 until start of service on 11 February 2017 for major track renewals.

Agreement has been reached with Bluebell Railway PLC to offer all staff travel facilities holders, a 50% discount on all its standard class, single and return, adult and child fares throughout the year. For example, the current adult return standard class fare between East Grinstead and Sheffield Park, which allows the visitor unlimited journeys along the line throughout the day of purchase, costs £17 and would be offered to staff travel holders for £8.50. The only limitation on use is that the discounted fares would not be valid for travel on the Bluebell Railway’s special fine-dining Pullman trains, its special afternoon-tea lounge car services or in its first class carriages when provided. Also, in line with other heritage rail operators, Bluebell Railway reserves the right to withhold the discounted offer on certain occasional special gala event days.

Staff travel restrictions The Winter 2016/2017 Restrictions booklet will be available online by early December (and in hard copy format to those who do not have access to the internet and have requested a copy).

Staff travel facilities information for those with internet access While we are always happy to deal with telephone or e-mail enquiries regarding your travel facilities entitlements, you may find it more convenient or quicker to obtain the answer to your question by looking at the Rail Staff Travel website: www.atoc.org/about-atoc/rail-staff-travel

On our website you will find

n application forms together with the card and pass Conditions of Issue and Use

n guides to domestic and international travel facilities

n details of staff travel restrictions

n the latest news and offers

n a frequently asked questions section

Changes to home address and family details Please remember that RSTL and RPMI are separate organisations. So if you advise RPMI of a change of address or death of a partner, you must also let RSTL know separately. Forms 1615 and 1616 are available from the RSTL website to help you do this.

RSTL’s contact details are: Tel: 0800 652 1700 Email: [email protected] Website: www.atoc.org/rst Post: Rail Staff Travel, PO Box 72071, London EC1P 1JD


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A tribute to Sam ReedBy Les McDowell, of the British Transport Pensioners Federation.

For many years Sam Reed wrote a short item for Penfriend, and will be well known to many readers.

Sadly, Sam passed away recently and while many people attended his funeral service, a great many more will remember him not only for his work to help others, but also for his championing of the Railway Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas, Staffordshire.

Sam worked tirelessly to gather financial support from within the BTPF and from railway companies to erect the Memorial and this is a fitting memorial not only to the whole railway industry, but also to Sam himself, a lifelong railwayman.

You can find out more about the BTPF’s work at www.btpf.org.

Sam is pictured at the Railway Memorial.


Today’s railways: the big picture How is today’s UK Rail industry performing and what might the future look like? The answer seems to be pretty positive, according to a recent industry update by RPMI.

RPMI advises the Trustee on a range of matters, including employer covenant. This is handled by our Corporate Finance & Restructuring team, who as well as analysing the detail of each and every sponsoring employer, also monitor events across the rail industry and their potential effect on the employers who sponsor the railway pension schemes. This article is an overview of their recent presentation to the Trustee.

Our employers cover the whole industry – from passenger train and freight operators (the TOCs and FOCs), to call centres, cleaning, ticketing, IT and food and drink.

Infrastructure is dominated by Network Rail, as well the signalling, civil engineering consultancies and other infrastructure companies and groups. Rolling stock is covered by the train manufacturers, the rolling stock operating companies (ROSCOS) and specialist maintenance companies.

We also have industry bodies such as British Transport Police, ATOC, RSSB and RPMI itself. Some of the employers are wholly rail-focused - others are rail-centric divisions or subsidiaries of multi-sector and/or multi-national groups.

At the big picture level, it’s very positive. Rail is central to the UK economy. It’s forecast to continue to grow, and continues to attract considerable public funding.

Crossrail is powering ahead, HS2 is making progress. Crossrail 2 is potentially on the horizon and the Northern Powerhouse is beginning to stir. New trains are on order,

lines are being electrified, passenger numbers are expected to grow, and rail freight is expected to grow. Transport in general and rail in particular emerged relatively unscathed from the last government spending review. Very few experts expect this to change, even after the Brexit result.

That said, the rail industry, like pretty much all other industries, is operating in a prolonged period of austerity. Overall public spending has been negative or flat for almost a decade, and the push for efficiencies across the industry is massive. Everyone seems to want more for less.

This is driving mixed messages – the outlook is good for more or less all rail employers – there’s growth, funding’s available for major infrastructure projects but there’s also this prolonged crackdown on departmental spending.

So what about the passengers? Notwithstanding much press coverage on fares, more and more people are travelling by train. With the rise of the digital age, people are also demanding more, and quicker! In response, the industry is increasingly looking at new technologies in ticketing and communication.

If you add the prospect of devolution and regionalisation into the mix, with key decisions perhaps moving away from the Department for Transport towards the regional Passenger Transport Executives (PTEs) such as Merseytravel and Transport for London, there may be a switch in focus, from moving trains to moving people, with much better connectivity

between different modes of transport. This could present opportunities for our more IT-focused employer groups, and will no doubt attract new entrants into the market - maybe even an ‘i-train’ or ‘Trainbook’.

The ‘main players’ in this part of the industry have generally been in the industry for some time, yet this is a very fast moving dynamic environment. In this sector, change appears to happen through acquisitions - buy or be bought!

And last but not least is the railways’ other key user… rail freight. This sector also has high growth prospects – it’s green, it’s efficient and it frees up the roads. But it partly relies on central grants to compete £ for £ with road haulage and is to a degree at the mercy of levies charged for access to the network.

Wider economic issues also affect rail freight, particularly in the coal, steel, international and construction sectors. Coal volumes have fallen dramatically following the doubling of carbon tax in 2015.

Energy prices have moved in favour of gas, taking coal off the rails, and this is unlikely to recover much now that all coal-fired power stations look set to shut within 10 years.

International issues, such as the slowdown in emerging markets, particularly China, have hit the UK steel industry. However, the construction industry’s recovery over the last few years has pushed growth in the movement of building material aggregates by rail.

Overall the Rail industry is fascinating and complex, and all the teams at RPMI are privileged to work hard to protect the security of benefits on behalf of our members and the Trustee.

Today’s railways:

Eat well, stay heartyHealthy eating doesn’t mean sticking to salad and raw veg... and it doesn’t have to be expensive either.

Eating well will help improve your physical and mental wellbeing, and keep you trim. And best of all, it doesn’t have to be boring!

Take your five portions a day for example – just add a couple of tablespoons of different kinds of fruit and veg to your daily meals to get the nutrients you need. It doesn’t matter if they’re from a tin, frozen or fresh as long as there’s a bit of variety.

If you don’t have a big appetite, or have been poorly, a small fruit juice or smoothie will count as one of your 5-a-day.

Good food checklist

Food groups Benefits

Chicken, beans, fish and eggs High in protein, to help build and repair your body

Bread, cereal and potatoes Great energy boosters

Pasta and brown rice Full of fibre

Milk, cheese and yoghurts Keep bones and teeth strong

So whether you add a sliced banana to your breakfast toast, or throw extra veg into your casserole for tea, you’re eating that little bit healthier.

Drink up!

You’ve probably noticed the trend for carrying bottled water around – it’s very popular among young people. However, there’s an important message behind this health fad – staying hydrated.


Meals on WheelsIf you’re finding it hard to shop, carry food home or cook for yourself, Meals on Wheels might be able to help.

Run by the Royal Voluntary Service, Meals on Wheels delivers two million meals a year to elderly people. These meals cover cultural

as well as dietary needs, and are designed to provide a good balanced diet. They can be delivered hot or frozen for eating later.

To find services in your area please call 0845 608 0122 (Lines open Mon – Fri, 8am – 6pm) or visit royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.

Recipes for one (and two!)

Aim to drink about six to eight cups of fluid a day. This can be tea, coffee, or squash, but not the stronger stuff. As we get older, our sense of thirst diminishes, so we need to remember to drink at regular intervals – not so hard if you’re a brew-a-holic!

Sign up to be a volunteer and help make a real difference to your community

Fruity dessert with marshmallows (serves 2)

Ingredients250ml flavoured or plain yoghurt

1 large banana¼ cup berries (fresh or frozen)

Walnuts (optional)2 tablespoons marshmallows

Instructions1. Chop up banana and mix into the yoghurt with

the berries. 2. Add the nuts and marshmallows and enjoy.

Golden baked chicken

Ingredients1 teaspoon oil2 tablespoons breadcrumbs1/4 teaspoon turmeric½ teaspoon paprika1/4 teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon chicken stock powder1 chicken breast

(Simply double the measures if you’re cooking for two).

Instructions1. Pre-heat oven to 180˚C.2. Lightly grease an ovenproof dish.3. Mix breadcrumbs and spices in a bowl with the chicken stock powder.4. Coat chicken with breadcrumb mixture.5. Place chicken in dish and drizzle with oil. Cover with lid or foil.6. Bake for 40-45 minutes.7. Serve with a baked potato and cooked vegetables or coleslaw.

The Police Treatment Centres are centres of excellence in the care and treatment of serving and retired police officers suffering from injury or illness – including British Transport Police pensioners.

The centres, based in Harrogate and Auchterarder, Perth, aim to support and encourage a return to better health as swiftly as possible. Around 4,000 serving and retired police officers receive help every year, and retired officers attend for a one-week stay starting on a Sunday.

The majority of officers attend to receive intensive physiotherapy treatment. Following a thorough assessment, a tailored programme is developed including a combination of exercise, hands-on therapy and complementary therapies.

Patients are encouraged to participate in education and exercise classes and make good use of the facilities, including the hydrotherapy pool, swimming pool, fitness gym and tennis courts.

The open-plan physio suite provides a comfortable and relaxed environment and the physiotherapists offer an excellent range of treatments.

There are additional clinical areas with curtains and a private treatment room to aid dignity and personal space if needed.

There is also a close working arrangement between the fitness and leisure staff, ensuring that all patients are well equipped to continue their rehabilitation when they leave.

Are you eligible for treatment?Retired BTP officers - in line with their other eligible police colleagues - are asked to pay a donation of just 65p per week to be eligible for treatment, subject to clinical approval and availability.

For more information, vist the PTC’s website at www.thepolicetreatmentcentres.org to download a direct debit mandate which should be completed and returned to St Andrews in Harrogate.

Your retired officer donations should start as soon as possible after your serving officer payroll donation ceases – otherwise a 12-month qualifying period will come into operation before you can apply for treatment.

If you did not donate to the PTC during service, you may start donations in retirement. However, you will be subject to the 12-month qualifying period referred to above.

Supporting the centresFundraising initiatives like the PTC’s lottery and bed and breakfast offers help the centres to continue providing first-class treatment for their patients. You can join the lottery from £1 per month to be in with a chance of winning up to £1000 or book B&B for Friday and Saturday most weekends of the year at very competitive rates. Terms and conditions apply.

The Police Treatment Centres: a force for promoting health and wellbeing

Are you a BTP pensioner who has been a bit under the weather lately?

Scan the QR code to find out more.

Contact:St Andrews:Harlow Moor Road, Harrogate HG2 0ADT: 01423 504448

Castlebrae:Castleton Road, Auchterarder, Perthshire PH3 1AGT: 01764 664369

www.thepolicetreatmentcentres.orgenquiries@thepolicetreatmentcentres.org



Your Letters

Invitation from the Fellowship of Retired Signal & Telecommunication Engineers

Would you like to join our Fellowship?

Membership is open to retired members of British Railways Regional and Divisional Signal & Telecommunications Engineers, who worked in the London Midland Region.

This includes engineers, technical, supervisory and clerical staff who were previously members of the old London Midland & Scottish Railway, British Railways S&T departments, and anyone who transferred into Railtrack and Network Rail.

We have around 140 members, and meetings are usually held on the first Friday of every month, at Waverly Hotel, Pedley Street, Crewe, or other agreed venues. Spouses, partners, friends and colleagues are all welcome as guests.

Please join us for drinks, conversation and lunch.

We also hold a Ladies Day, a members’ day out, and Christmas lunch. Membership fee is £4 per year. For more details, contact the secretary Mr A Fleet.

Telephone: 0121 308 3175 Email: [email protected]

Mr A Fleet

Do you remember the West Croydon-Sutton line?

I am writing on behalf of the Croydon Airport Society, which maintains an archive on the airport and opens a visitor centre to the public on the first Sunday of every month.

In the 1920s, a branch off the main West Croydon-Sutton railway line was built to serve the National Aircraft Factory, adjacent to Croydon aerodrome.

We have a drawing showing the single track line crossing the main Stafford Road, presumably at a level crossing, and then dividing into three sidings. However, we have no photographs of it or the workings. We guess that a loco was permanently based on this branch line, which pulled goods trains into the factory complex and was probably kept in an engine shed when not in use.

The only other thing we know is that, on 5 February 1923, the line was used to bring a passenger train up to the edge of the airfield so that VIP passengers could alight and view a special display of aircraft organised as part of the International Air Conference taking place in London at the time.

We are anxious to fill this gap in the Society’s knowledge. Could anyone provide information about this branch line? Details such as dates of opening and closure, exact track layout, signalling arrangements, locomotives used, frequency of workings etc. would be helpful and any copies of photographs would be particularly welcome.

Email: [email protected]

Colin Ockendon - archivist

I am researching the working conditions of BR staff in the 1960s, with particular reference to footplate staff. The ‘60s represent the last days of steam traction. To this end, I am trying to obtain copies of the various booklets issued by the trade unions (NUR and ASLEF) in the mid ‘60s, setting out the conditions of service for the various sectional council staff employed by BR. Much to my regret, I disposed of my own copies many years ago.

I wonder if any of your readers have such booklets which have survived, and which they are prepared to part with. I am of course prepared to pay for them.

Email: [email protected]

Cedric C Lodge


Searching for old friends…

Thomas MaddoxDo any Penfriend readers remember Mr Thomas Maddox, who was born in Swansea in 1920 before moving to Milton Keynes?

He was on the railways all his life, starting as a fireman at Bletchley Station and working his way up to become a driver. Unfortunately he was only 42 when he died.

His son Trevor – now in his 70s – would love to hear from anyone who may have worked with him or has any stories or photographs from that time. It would really make his day!

Mrs Sue NortonTelephone: 07900 862 793 or Email: [email protected]

Stratford Steelworks

I’m Phil Woods and I worked for the Area Civil Engineers Steelworks in the late 70s and 80s in Stratford, East London, with Vic Anglish and Dave Lawrence and the late, great Joe Farey, Johnny Russell, Pat and Miles Russell, Brian Bell, Bob Lindstrom, Tommy Mills, Johnny Murch, Ian Price, George Drury, Jim and Steve Haney, Dave O’Connor and many more top men.

I have lost touch with them all and they seem to avoid Facebook! Is anyone out there?

Telephone: 01825 873053/07543 263819Email: [email protected]

Ron and MaryThis is a long shot but worth a try. My name is Joan Trotter, formerly Graham, formerly Brampton.

I am trying to trace some friends from a very long time ago. All I know is that they were called Ron and Mary, had a daughter named Justine, and both worked for the railways. They will now be in their late 70s and used to live in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear.

Telephone: 0191 262 4425

Dillington HouseJohn MacKenzie, who lives in Elgin, sent in this photograph taken at a Consultation and Negotiation course in Dillington House, Taunton, in the spring of 1967. John, who is pictured fifth from right, writes: “I was administrative assistant to the area manager, Kyle of Lochalsh at the time.”

Flying ScotsmanMrs Mary Jalland, from Cambridge, says: “Flying Scotsman has been in the news a lot lately, and I thought readers might like to see this shot of my late husband Colin (on the left) standing with an unknown gentleman in front of the famous train.”

Share your storiesDo you have any memories/tales of life on the railways that you’d like to share with your fellow readers?

We’re always happy to hear from you, so please drop us a line at Penfriend, RPMI, Stooperdale Offices, Brinkburn Road, Darlington DL3 6EH. You can also email [email protected].

Photographs are also welcome – don’t forget to include your name and address so that we can return them!

Photo album


Book cornerNews for members of the British Railways Superannuation Fund

Triennial General Meeting

The 2017 Triennial General Meeting will be held at the Hallmark Hotel, Court Square, Carlisle CA1 1QY on Tuesday, 3 October 2017 at 13.30 hours. Any members wishing to put a resolution to the meeting should do so in writing to the Secretary by 15 March 2017 stating your full name and pension reference number. Your resolution must be signed by five other members of the Fund.

Committee news

Mr David Hesford’s and Mr Frank Brindle’s current period in office will end on 3 October 2017. Mr Hesford and Mr Brindle have both confirmed that they will be standing for re-election. Arrangements will be made to conduct a nomination exercise for both of these member representative positions on the Management Committee in advance of the Triennial General Meeting.

Valuation update

A full valuation of the Fund is undertaken every three years and is next due as at 31 December 2016. Each year however the Management Committee receives an update on the funding position from the Actuary. The latest position as at 31 December 2015 indicated a small reduction in the deficit of the Fund taking the balance of assets and liabilities going forward. Members need have no concern as to their existing benefits as these are fully protected by the Government guarantee enjoyed by the Fund. There will be an opportunity to consider the performance of the Fund at the next Triennial General Meeting of members on 3 October 2017, when the result of the full valuation as at 31 December 2016 will be available.

2015 Annual Report and Accounts

A copy of the 2015 Annual Report and Accounts is now available. If you require a copy, please contact:

Paul Milton, Secretary to the Management Committee, British Railways Superannuation Fund, Stooperdale Offices, Brinkburn Road, Darlington DL3 6EH.

The Ramblings of a Railwayman 2nd Edition, by Geoff Burch.

Starting with Geoff’s initial interest in ‘trainspotting’ in the late 1950s, this book covers his career on the railway from leaving school at 15 to work as an engine cleaner at Guildford Loco in 1961. Following a spell in the Boilersmiths shop, Geoff was a fireman between 1961 and 1967, and was on one of the last steam locomotives to leave Guildford Loco bound for Salisbury on 9 July 1967. With a foreword by David Shepherd CBE, the fully revised hardback is illustrated with over 300 photographs (some previously unpublished), kindly supplied by the late David Salmon and Richard S Greenwood MBE. The book costs £20 and Geoff is offering free postage (worth £5) to all fellow retired staff. Email [email protected] for details.

Recollections of a British Rail, Southern Region, Train Guard in the early 1980s, by Clive Bowd. Based at St. Leonards, West Marina Depot, Clive worked mainly out of Hastings railway station serving the London commuters and holiday visitors on the south coast.

This e-book is his reflections on the UK’s industrial heritage and social history of the time. Available on Kindle and Amazon.

East and West through Roby, by Frank Green.

Frank’s painstaking research covers a short stretch of the Liverpool to Manchester Railway including Broad Green, Huyton, Huyton Quarry, and the Willis Branch Line.

He has now published a book called which is available on Amazon, priced at £21.99. Readers can also buy copies direct from Frank. Email [email protected].


Save the date: you’re in for a ‘rail’ treat!There’s plenty going on in the world of Rail during the second half of 2016. Here we look some of the festivals and special events around the UK.

Railway in Wartime promenaders. Courtesy of North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Book corner

Railway In Wartime is a chance to relive the spirit and camaraderie of World War II with re-enactments, entertainment and vehicle displays on the picturesque North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Runs between 14-16 October.

Tel: 01751 472 472508 Web: nymr.co.uk.

Keighley and Worth Valley Railway hosts a three-day festival of steam with its Autumn Steam Spectacular between 7-9 October. Rare locomotives will be on display – details to be confirmed nearer the date.

Tel: 01535 645214 Web: kwvr.co.uk

Hop aboard the Bodmin and Wenford Railway for a Winter Steam-up on December 31 – a ride on the steam locomotives should help blow away all that festive overindulgence.

Tel: 01208 73555 Web: bodminrailway.co.uk

Explore the rich history and pub traditions of Lancashire on the Guided Rail Ale Trail. The steam trail starts at Bury Bolton Street Station on 19 November, and includes a bottle of ale and pub lunch.

Tel: 0161 764 7790 Web: eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Severn Valley Railway is holding a Season Finale Gala from November 4-6, with an array of steam locomotives, heritage rides and taster footplate experiences to enjoy.

Tel: 01562 757900 Web: svr.co.uk

Join the Rail Ale Trail in Lancashire this winter.

Written, designed and produced by RPMI, Stooperdale Offices, Brinkburn Road, Darlington, DL3 6EH.DNV quality assured firm to ISO 9001.

Write to:

Customer Services Team,RPMI, PO Box 300,Darlington, DL3 6YJ

Email:

[email protected]

Websites:

www.railwayspensions.co.uk www.btppensions.co.uk.

You can take part in our survey online. Find it under Resources/Newsletters/ Penfriend.

Helpline

0800 2 343434Open Monday to Friday 8.00am - 5.00pm If you are calling from a BT callbox, telephone 01325 342 800. Calls charged at BT rates.

If you are phoning from outside the UK, contact +44 1325 342 800. Calls charged at normal overseas rates.

Please note: some telephone calls may be recorded.

Contact usCompetition -

Who am I?

Congratulations to... David Harvey, from Nottingham, who won our spring 2016 competition, ‘Where in the world?’ The correct answers were: China, Sweden, Japan, USA, New Zealand, Norway, South Korea, Argentina.

2213-022 / Autumn/Winter 2016

The clues below hold the key to famous names from the railways past and present. Identify them all and you could win £60-worth of high street shopping vouchers.

Send your entries, together with your full name and address, to: Penfriend Competition, Room W27, RPMI, Stooperdale Offices, Brinkburn Road, Darlington DL3 6EH.

Alternatively, email your answers to: [email protected] with Penfriend Competition in the subject line.

The competition closes on 1 December 2016. The winner will be the first correct entry drawn at random.

Name: ...........................................................................

Address: ........................................................................

......................................................................................

......................................................................................

......................................................................................

Email (optional):

......................................................................................

Telephone number (optional):

......................................................................................

I’m an American railroader who became a posthumous hero after sacrificing my life for my passengers in a train collision in 1900. My name is immortalised in a famous ballad.

I’m a key figure in Britain’s industrial revolution in the 19th century, and a driving force behind the Great Western Railway. One of my greatest achievements was the building of the Box Tunnel – the longest rail tunnel in the world at the time.

I’m an enduring entrepreneur of the 20th/21st century, best known as the founder of the Virgin Group. My rail company was set up in the mid-1990s in a blaze of publicity, and still runs franchises in the UK today.

I’m an English civil and mechanical engineer who built the first public railway line to use steam locomotives in 1825. I invented the standard gauge which is still used throughout the world today.

I started off as a successful ferry owner in the USA before creating an empire from the New York Central Railway. I built the first Grand Central Terminal, and went on to become one of the richest men in American history.

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