The British Transport Police Authority (BTPA) bid a fond farewell to a member who has been with the Authority since its inception and who, for the last ten years, has ensured the interest of rail staff and BTP officers were at the heart of the Authority’s decisions.
Lew Adams has been with the Authority since 1 July 2004 and is the last of the original body of members. Lew’s term ends poignantly on the eve of the Authority’s ten year anniversary.
A keen Arsenal fan, Lew has also fully supported the ‘boys and girls in blue’ ensuring the British Transport Police had the money, tools and resources needed to police Great Britain’s railways.
During his ten years as a member Lew sat on several committees including one that determined the policing targets for the Force each year and played a key role in balancing the Authority’s aspirations for BTP with what was deliverable.
Lew has also been instrumental in bringing about change that will vastly improve the wellbeing of the Force – particularly for those on the frontline.
As Lead Member for Health and Safety, Lew and the Authority worked closely with BTP for a year and earlier this month BTPA and the Force introduced new H&S Policy.
Improvements include a new interim Head of Safety and Wellbeing, who will oversee the wellbeing of officers and staff nationally as well as a rollout of force wide monthly wellbeing days where officers can get regular check-ups and advice.
Andrew Figgures Chief Executive of the British Transport Police Authority at a presentation for Lew said:
“Lew has been a stalwart supporter and ally for BTP officers and has brought with him vast experience of the rail industry which has made him an asset to the Authority. On behalf of BTPA I want to thank him for his contributions over the years and wish him all the best.”
BTP’s Deputy Chief Constable David McCall added:
“Lew has consistently looked out for the interests of BTP and our officers and his voice has been heard loud and clear particularly when it comes to their health, safety and wellbeing.
As an Authority member Lew has made a real difference to the police service for the railways and we are grateful for the support and challenge he has provided. We wish Lew every success in whatever cause he intends to champion next.”
“Ten years has flown by” said Lew. “When I joined the Authority BTP was in a poor state now they are at the top of the league. I have always done what I can to support the people who work for the Force and on the railways and I am proud to see the Force go from strength to strength.”
Pic caption: From L to R Andrew Figgures Chief Executive BTPA, Brian Philpott Deputy Chair BTPA, Lew Adams Member and Deputy Chief Constable BTP David McCall.