LNER Headbanger Says "Headphones On Please" Ahead Of National Quiet Day

Robb is a founding member of legendary British heavy metal rock band, The Tygers of Pan Tang and is known on stage for his loud shirts and even louder music. However, while working onboard an LNER train, he goes above and beyond to help customers enjoy a peaceful and relaxing journey. 

Robb said: “I think I could certainly lay claim to being the loudest employee at LNER, at least off the train! I am very fortunate to be able to balance my two jobs, which couldn’t be more different.  

“There is a time and place to make lots of noise - on stage is my time. When working on the train, however, having looked after customers for over two decades, I know many people want nothing more than a quiet, relaxing journey, and it’s my job to help provide that. All our customers need to worry about is sitting back and relaxing, perhaps with a cup of tea, a book, or plugging in their headphones and listening to a good podcast!” 

The call for quiet follows research from LNER that found that talking loudly on the phone (59 per cent) and playing music out loud (53 per cent) topped the list of the ‘Top Ten Train Don'ts’. Using headphones onboard was asked of 53 per cent of respondents in a list of the ‘Top Ten Train Dos’. LNER has also been backed by leading UK charity The Noise Abatement Society whose aims include how they can solve noise problems in a pragmatic and sustainable way. 

Stuart Thomas, Communications Director at LNER, said: “The LNER route stretches almost one thousand miles with many of our customers joining us for longer journeys. We want them to enjoy the best possible experience.  

“On National Quiet Day, we’re encouraging people to spare an extra thought for others. As a thank you for keeping the volume down and using headphones, we’ll be offering customers a complimentary hot drink from our Café Bar on the 14th of September for doing their bit to help make sure everyone’s journey is a peaceful one.”  

Gloria Elliott OBE, CEO of Noise Abatement Society, said: “In our fast-paced lives, constant intrusive noise can be extremely stressful, especially when there’s no escape from it - which is why the Noise Abatement Society heartily welcomes LNER’s imaginative Quiet Day initiative encouraging rail passengers to think before they share their phone conversations, or play loud music, and to consider those around them who just want to enjoy a peaceful journey.”