A train has been named in honour of a railwayman who has made a lasting impact on passengers for 50 years.

Vic Hall, a 66-year-old railwayman, was surprised to have a train named in his honour soon after he dispatched his final train at Watford Junction last Wednesday (August 7).

The London Northwestern Railway train – a class 350 (350375) - was renamed as the “Vic Hall” at a special ceremony hosted by the London Northwestern Railway managing director Jan Chaudhry-van der Velde.

Mr Hall, from Harrow, started working at Watford Junction at 16 on August 4, 1969, for what was then known as the British Rail. Since working at the station, he became an integral and unforgettable member of staff.

Mr Hall said: “I was just so keen on trains; I think I just turned up and they let me help. I was doing anything and everything, from cleaning the windows to looking after the platforms.

“Coming to work has always been a pleasure for me because I love the trains. I have been fortunate to work with a fantastic set of colleagues over the years and I will certainly be back regularly to visit.”

Alongside the renamed train, Mr Hall was also gifted by his colleagues a signed ‘Watford Junction’ platform sign and a model of his favourite engine – a now-scrapped Class 50 named ‘Implacable’.

Mr Chaudhry-van der Velde said: “To have worked on the railway for 50 years is a remarkable achievement but to have worked in the same location for that long is incredibly special.

“Vic is a much-loved feature of life at Watford Junction, who is respected by his customers and colleagues alike. He will be sorely missed but we wish him a very long and happy retirement.”

During his career at Watford Junction, Mr Hall helped many VIPs at the station. The deputy mayor of Watford Borough Council, Cllr Karen Collet, joined the ceremony where Mr Hall's colleagues of the past and present gathered for this moment.

Now in his retirement, Mr Hall wishes to explore the globe train-hopping across different countries, with Germany being his next stop.