Mexborough and Swinton Times, May 27th, 1932

Railwayman Retires

A long period of faithful service on the railway was brought to a close on Monday when Mr. Henry Olley Byford, of Hemingfield, a signalman employed on the Sheffield to Barnsley branch of the L.M.S. at Wombwell main retired on superannuation.

Mr. Byford started his career with the Midland Railway Company on December 22nd, 1893, and after working at Pinxton and Langley Mill removed to Wombwell Main in September 1904. He has since been employed as a signalman at a box adjoining the railway station. Mr. Byford’s retirement was marked by a presentation. Mr. C. E. Dagley, the stationmaster, presenting him with a silver watch on behalf of his colleagues on the station staff. Included with the gift was a handbag for Mrs. Byford.

In handing over the gift Mr. Dagley assured Mr. Byford of the best wishes of all who have been associated with him in his work, He said Mr. Byford’s services had been marked by an extraordinary high standard of reliability and he sincerely hoped the gift they were making him would be equal to the same test. If the watch was as efficient in its service as Mr Byford had been, the owner would never have cause to complain about it.

Mr. Byford suitably replied and thanked the donors for their good fellowship and good wishes. During the whole period of his service at Wombwell Main Station Mr. Byford has lived at Hemingfield and since 1895 has occupied a cottage adjoining the railway in Top Row.

He has had a long association with St. George’s Church, Jump, as a sidesman and churchwarden. He is an enthusiastic gardener and hopes during his retirement to devote more time to that hobby,