A Dartford man has described what it's like playing a vital role for Southeastern as one of its 'Gate Line operators'.

The role is part of the ‘winter operation’ which launched the moment the clocks went back in October.

Falconwood station is based between Bexley and Greenwich and handles 1,200 passengers each morning.

Simon is known at the station for his kind offerings of hot drinks and enjoys being at aid to passengers in need.

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The station worker took up the current post five years ago and has been to Falconwood's rescue ever since.

Simon said: “When the trains are delayed sometimes all we can offer is a cuppa and usually this works for us!”

Falconwood station prepares for all possible situations and keeps supplies such as snack bars, foil blankets and emergency glow sticks, on the ready.

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Applying heating strips on electric rails, running empty ‘ghost trains’ overnight and being ready to go with gritting are just some of the everyday duties which ensure stations run smoothly in cold conditions.

On why he likes the job Simon added: “It presents me with different day to day challenges none of which I have experienced elsewhere before.

“Having the responsibilities of the day to day running of the station suits me and I like the interaction between our passengers.”