Pop mogul Pete Waterman was welcomed to Merseyside last Friday by regional train operator Merseyrail.
The record producer, TV presenter and DJ took a tour of the Merseyrail network as part of his new role as President of the Railway Benefit Fund (RBF), meeting railway employees and passengers.
A keen rail enthusiast, Pete enjoyed visits to various train stations across the network, including Sandhills where he recorded a station announcement, much to the delight of passengers, and Lime Street, Birkenhead North and Liverpool Central where he enjoyed behind-the-scenes tours.
Known for launching the careers of music icons like Rick Astley and Kylie, Pete’s main interest outside of music is in railways, having been involved in several train ventures over the years.
In his new role as President of the RBF, he has embarked on a ‘Meet Pete’ UK tour, promoting the charity’s work supporting railway employees and their families.
Speaking of his trip to Merseyside, Runcorn-based Pete said: “I love railways but I’ve never done anything like this before. I didn’t realise just how amazing is.
“Merseyrail is amazing – I’ve had a fantastic day and really appreciate how different this network is to anything else.
“Overall I just wanted to meet the staff and tell them about the great work that the RBF does, caring for people with a multitude of problems from money and health, to bereavement and family. We’re a friend and are always in the background to help our colleagues.”
Andy Heath, Managing Director at Merseyrail, added: “It was a pleasure to welcome Pete to our network last week.
“His passion for the rail industry and the work he’s doing with the RBF shone through during his visit and it was great for our staff to hear first-hand how the charity can support them in many areas of their lives. Pete is welcome to visit us at Merseyrail anytime.”