Template:Featured picture/June 2014
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Alan Heywood gained a B.A. (Hons.) at the University College of Swansea in history, political theory and government. He became the FR's Traffic & Commercial manager. Traffic, operating, sales, buffets, and the BR ticket agency came within his remit. He claimed not to be a really dedicated enthusiast and that he tended to see the FR from the public's point of view which helped when selling to them. It led to modernistic but practical notions such as the 24-hour clock and yellow bands over first class compartments. Before joining the staff he was a very regular volunteer and had the position of Head Guard. He formed the highly successful Ffestiniog Travel operation in 1967 and, as General Manager, led its growth into a substantial overseas tour operator. He retired in 2005. Alan Heywood served the railway under every General Manager and Chief Executive from 1955 to the beginning of 1996, when, probably to his own surprise he was asked to succeed Gordon Rushton in the post. He served as General Manager until 26th December 2000. Photo credit: FR Magazine |