Station staff are hoping to raise money for a "fantastic tribute" to a train driver who spent over four decades on the railway by naming a guide dog after him.

Greater Anglia staff based at Ely station are aiming to raise £2,500 as well as christen the puppy “Denny” in memory of Andrew Denny, who died in June. 

Customer services team member Amanda came up with the idea after she saw other guide dogs being trained at the station.

She approached Mr Denny’s family and received their blessing.

Mr Denny worked on the railway for 43 years.

The customer services team member said: “It is incredible to see guide dogs being trained around Ely station and getting used to the trains, and crowds of people. Over the years I have grown really close to the dogs and their trainers.

“To name a puppy Denny would be such a fantastic tribute to the memory of Andrew who so many of us knew and thought of so fondly.

“Come down to Ely and help us raise funds for such a great cause.” 

The money raised will go to Guide Dogs one of the country’s leading sight loss charities who help provide life changing services for adults, children, and young people affected. 

Once they are qualified, guide dogs help support their owners as they travel across the rail network by helping them get on and off trains.

Staff at Ely station have organised competitions such as “guess the name” where customers can pay £1 to guess the names of the three current guide dogs.

Those who win will either receive family rail vouchers for a trip to London, vouchers for a meal in Ely or a hamper of dog related treats provided by local shops.

Last Friday the station hosted a fundraising bake sale and a children’s colouring competition.

Martin Moran, Greater Anglia’s commercial and customer services director, said: “Guide dogs give those with vision impairment such independence, and to raise funds to follow a puppy’s journey through training is such a lovely thing to do.

“Andrew Denny often passed through Ely while driving trains, and to name a puppy in his memory is a very touching act - he will always be in our thoughts.”

The project has already raised more than £1,150.

Donations can be made on the JustGiving page.