Gifts for traumatised FCC train drivers

A SYMPATHETIC commuter was so concerned about a pair of First Capital Connect (FCC) train drivers following the deaths of two teenagers on the Thameslink route that she bought them a gift.

The passenger, who wishes to remain anonymous, sent them biscuits and a greetings card after hearing the FCC employees had been seriously affected by the tragedy last month.

Hertswood Academy students Charleigh Disbrey, 15, and Mert Karaoglan, 18, were hit by a train near Elstree and Borehamwood station on Monday, June 17.

The two teenagers, both from Borehamwood, are believed to have been hit on the southbound line by a train travelling from St Albans to Sutton in what is a suspected suicide pact.

The thoughtful woman wrote in the card: “To the FCC drivers - something to cheer you up after a horrible week.”

FCC operations director Jackie Townsend said: “People sometimes forget the terrible trauma our drivers suffer when they witness a tragedy such as this and the death of two people so young was particularly harrowing.

“This wonderful, heart-warming gesture by one of our passengers will be appreciated by everyone in our driver community.

“Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of all those involved.”