Tom Clift was a true railwayman, and I don't think the obituary does him justice.
We all knew Tom was a bit of a 'crank', but he was also a very good manager and earned the respect and loyalty of the staff who worked under him.
On Rugby special days the most elaborate diagrams would be prepared, stretching resources to the limit on The Valley Lines. We would do anything for Tom; no Union disputes, and most of us would volunteer for extra duties/overtime. He engendered an 'esprit de corps' that was totally lacking latter with Arriva. His particular habit of knowing and referring to every member of staff by their name was just another facet of Tom.
Tom had bought a class 20 to restore. I don't know what happened to it, but a class 25 (?) has been named after him.
Tom did much to perpetuate the success of The Valley Lines, which he loved so much. When Arriva took over, things changed, sadly.
He wasn't just my General Manager, we all regarded him as a friend. That is a very rare quality in railway circles where there is traditionally a conflict between labour and management.
Setting aside his avid support of Rhymney depot when working the 37s and the 'trucks', we all knew he supported The Valley Lines, and his passion to provide a good service for our neighbours and friends was the same. He was always welcome in any drivers cab or guards compartment, and we knew we could address any concerns with Tom knowing he would take action if appropriate.
When Arriva took over and Tom was side lined, there was a resurgence in Union activity, which I myself was involved in.
He had a great touch on things. On problematic Rugby special days he would stay in the Roster clerks and train planning office (Control) until late in the night to see that things went passably to plan.
Knowing my interest in steam, he gave me a proper forged ex-BR (WR) fireman's coal shovel. What more can you say about a remarkable man!
Cheers,
Julian