A rail worker who has failed to let death threats and frequent abuse wipe away his cheery attitude, has been nominated to be a Croydon Champion.

Herman Panton, 55, signed up to work as a ticket barrier operator five years ago at Norbury station after originally training to be a plasterer.

The father-of-five has suffered numerous threats against his life from furious commuters, and endures regular abuse, but has a no fear attitude and said he loves the people he works with.

He said: “Most of the people are lovely. I do have people who are aggressive, but I have no fear. We all go out of this life so there is no need to be scared.”

His no-nonsense attitude has not gone unnoticed.

Geoff Smith, of Norbury, nominated Mr Panton for his unswerving tolerance in the face of abuse.

Mr Smith said: “Apart from his friendly smile and attitude, I am nominating him for the tolerance and acceptance of the abuse to which he and other barrier employees are subjected.

“These are people who either have an incorrect ticket, or insufficient funds on the ticket, or no ticket at all.

“When possible Herman will politely point out their error and offence and always suggest that they should buy a ticket.

“However, this often provokes a tirade of foul abuse. No one should be subjected to this.

“I admire Herman for his tolerance and patience, but mainly for his friendly and cheery attitude whatever the temperature and weather.”

Mr Panton, who moved to the UK from Jamaica and lives in New Addington, was shocked to received the nomination, which added to double birthday celebrations last month as he turned 56 on July 19 and his father turned 76 two days earlier.