Chairman’s profile
Hugh Sharp is a former Chief Economic Advisor to Sheffield City Council,
following a career in the civil service.
He has produced challenging papers on the interaction of public transport and
urban regeneration. Hugh says "I was impressed by BRAG’s representations
and am pleased to offer my services in the capacity as Chairman".
Secretary’s profile
Currently vacant
Treasurer’s profile
Yolanda Laybourne has had a close working-relationship with train operating
companies for the past 25 years through her involvement in regeneration and
tourism project management, and lives in Bexhill principally for the rail travel
options which it offers. Yolanda’s priorities centre around the ease of booking
tickets, to a pleasant, safe station environment, punctual, clean trains and
reliable connections. She views rail travel as a complete experience for both
business and leisure.
Publicity Officer
Richard Madge is a founder member of BRAG and is responsible for media
enquiries and formal stakeholder communication. He works across Sussex
for a public sector organisation, and regularly travels by train around the
county and UK for work. He also shares an interest in economic
regeneration.
Research & Inter-Group Liaison officer profile
Ray Chapman moved to Hastings in 2003 and travels by rail in the UK and
Europe for work commitments in the Travel & Technology Sector. Ray has
worked in the Travel and Transport Sector since 1989 including roles at Arriva
and The National Express Group. In 2004 Ray graduated with a Masters in
Strategic Marketing Management & Research Analysis at Kingston University,
London Business School. He also has an Advanced Diploma in Travel,
Transport and Tourism (Windsor & Maidenhead). He also has experience of
travelling by train to Hastings by train since the mid 1970s to visit family and
relatives in the area. He is extremely passionate in encouraging consumer
usage of rail services over the motor car, realising the green credentials to
drive responsible travel. Ray is also keen to assist the rail operator franchises
in optimizing their network, to deliver a great service coupled with achieving
profit and revenue, to reinvest back into infrastructure and make rail an
attractive investment. BRAG is pleased to have the benefit of Ray's
experience and expertise as part of our team.