In December 2025, Jayne Sumner retired as manager of Essex & South Suffolk CRP after 15 years in the role. Under her management, ESSCRP went from strength to strength. This community rail partnership was the first to gain accreditation from the Department for Transport in 2019, and then later won an Outstanding Achievement to Community Rail trophy at the 2022 Community Rail Awards.

Jayne’s achievements are varied and far-reaching. She masterminded the introduction of defibrillators at stations across the network, and each line now has dedicated guides, promotional materials and activities. She has been the driving force behind many train events, both for the travelling public and for charities who support disadvantaged groups, always ensuring that rail is accessible and meaningful to all.

Her can-do approach has helped support the strong and active group of adopters across Greater Anglia’s 42 stations in Essex, transforming stations into vibrant community spaces. Volunteers will agree that Jayne was always smiling, bubbly, and would bend over backwards to get things done – be it a big project or just acquiring a dustpan and brush.

One of Jayne’s most recent celebrated achievements was the creation of a commemorative book marking 200 years of the railway. The 45-page publication contains facts, artwork and games, and was produced in collaboration with local schools and station adopters, showcasing Jayne’s ability to bring people together through shared history and pride in the railways.

Thankfully, Jayne is not saying goodbye to the wonderful world of community rail completely, as she and her partner have become the adopters at one of Britain’s newest stations, Beaulieu Park. Twelve planters are already on order for Jayne to add her signature colour and creativity to this station!

As ESSCRP officer June Povey brilliantly describes: “Jayne’s outstanding contribution to community rail is not just in the projects she’s delivered, but in the lives she’s enriched. Jayne quite simply IS community rail.”

Jayne’s legacy is clear: stronger, more inclusive and more joyful communities, connected to their railway. Her departure will leave a big gap, but her influence will continue to inspire those she’s mentored and supported.