Newly-qualified train driver Lee Doggett drove his first train yesterday (Wednesday March 12) – the train named after his father Alan.

Lee’s dad, Alan Doggett, started working on the railway in 1985. He worked as a guard at Addiscombe railway station, then became a driver, then station manager at London Bridge.

Alan’s final role, as Service Delivery Manager, saw him lead a team of metro-area drivers. According to Southeastern, he won a reputation for “his tireless support, sharp wit, and dedication to his colleagues”.

The operator describes him as “an inspiration to many” who “remains fondly remembered by drivers across the Southeastern network today”.

After Alan died in a road accident while on holiday in 2017, his workmates paid tribute to him by naming the Class 376 Electrostar multiple unit 376001 in his honour.

Alan’s son Lee, aged 40, arrived at platform 3 at London Charing Cross station yesterday to drive his first train as a qualified driver.

He was accompanied on this first driving shift by family members, including his sister Sheryl, who also works for Southeastern.

In order to get 376001 ‘Alan Doggett’ to Charing Cross for Lee to drive it on this first shift, Driver Manager Damian Fisher asked for help from stock planners.

They rotated the stock in order to get the train there at the right time.

Two weeks ago, Charing Cross station hosted another significant train, as it unveiled its Networker in heritage livery.

“Dad loved the railway and cared deeply about his work and the people he worked with. I think that passion inspired both Lee and I to follow in his footsteps.

“Seeing Lee pass his driver assessment and take this step in his career is really special — I know Dad would be so proud.”

Sheryl Doggett, sister of Lee and daughter of Alan