COMMUTERS have told of their sadness at the news that a much-loved member of staff at Stourbridge Junction’s ticket office has lost his battle with cancer.
In a post on George the Station Cat’s social media channels, it was announced on Friday (October 4) that customer service assistant Ian Clee had died – having been absent from work due to stage four cancer for some time.
The announcement said: “It’s with a very heavy heart that we have to inform you that Ian who is Ian and not Dad Ian, has sadly passed away after a short battle with cancer.
“Thank you for all of the smiles Ian. Love from all of your friends and colleagues at Stourbridge. Big hugs to all.”
Ian, aged 55, who was a familiar and popular figure with commuters, will be remembered for his sense of humour and “wonderful voice for singing” – according to colleagues at Stourbridge Junction, home of George the station cat.
He had worked for nearly 25 years 'on the railway' - having started out with West Midlands Trains back in 1999 when it was known as Central Trains.
In 2013, when the train company was known as London Midland, he was shortlisted for an award at the national Rail Staff Awards in recognition of his outstanding customer service at Stourbridge Junction - based on feedback from colleagues and customers.
Speaking at the time, Ian, who was a Wolves and karaoke fan and keen rail traveler himself, said how much he "loved" his work, "being part of a team and getting to know the local people who use the station".
Station manager Simone Carter said: "To many Ian was not just a work colleague, he was a true friend with a wonderful sense of humour and a beautiful singing voice.
"He loved his days out on excursions and will be truly missed by all of our regulars at Stourbridge."
Former Stourbridge MP Suzanne Webb was among those who shared a tribute on her Facebook page upon hearing the news of his death.
She said: “It is such sad news that Stourbridge Station's very own Ian, has passed away after a short battle with cancer. He will have been a familiar face to all you regular commuters.
“RIP Ian, you will be very much missed by the Stourbridge community of train travellers and of course George.”
Public transport professional and radio presenter Phil Tonks said: “Very sad news. A really nice person who was always there to help.”
Stourbridge community fundraiser David Herrington added: “Really sad to learn of this. Such a lovely guy and so knowledgeable. A memory of kindness never forgotten.”
Stourbridge MP Cat Eccles said she was “so sorry” to hear the sad news, adding: “Love to you and all his friends and family.”
The Travelling Barman blogger Matt Merrick, from Stourbridge, added: “Such heartbreaking news. Greeted with a friendly smile and so helpful always. The face of Stourbridge Junction. He'll be sorely missed.”
And James Gwilliams, director of Stourbridge law firm Talbots, told the News: "I lived near Stourbridge Junction station for many years. I would regularly see Ian at the ticket office. He was always so happy and helpful. He was a great asset to the station and will be missed by many in Stourbridge."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here