A petition was launched today to lift the rumoured ban on the renowned Wokingham announcer who reads poetry over the loudspeaker during busy periods.
Tony Knight has a reputation for his friendly demeanour and often reads aloud from his childhood copy of Winnie the Pooh.
He has even appeared on BBC Berkshire as ‘the cheerful controller’ of South West Trains.
When disappointed local resident James Melville heard Wokingham Station may be putting an end to such announcements, he began a change.org petition to have the ban lifted.
It reached 473 supporters in just three hours, with 66 likes on Facebook.
Explaining the petition, Mr Melville said: “He has welcomed trains, read poems and told off those naughty trains that are a little late! His approach has brought joy and lightened the mood of what can be an otherwise boring commute.
“Unfortunately he has now been told to stop. This petition is to ask that he be allowed to bring joy to our lives again and to be able to give his unique announcement and read his poems.”
Suzanne Buckner commented: “How ridiculous we have to do this! Why would anyone want to stop him from reading poems and brightening everyone’s day? He’s a Wokingham treasure.”
Daniel Hinton said: “If he enjoys it and the commuters enjoy it, what’s the problem?”
Nena Gahlot added: “Don’t be miserable – let Tony spread cheer to Wokingham Borough.”
South West Trains manage Wokingham Station and have been approached for comment.
