‘Best part of the job is seeing the lights come on’

Two Croydon power workers have proved they are a groundbreaking team by being awarded a top prize by their employer.

Connor Smith, 25, and Terry Daly, 36, work in the groundworks team for electricity distributor UK Power Networks. They excavate roads and pavements so cable jointers can make connections, do upgrades, alterations and repairs to the underground network.

Employees at UK Power Networks voted the popular Factory Lane-based pair best ‘Groundworks Duo’ at the Living Our Values ceremony in London.

The nomination from colleagues described Connor and Terry as “an all-round great team, a true example of professionalism”.

Connor, from Croydon, said: “We take a lot of pride in the work we do and want to get the job done as quickly and safely as possible. The best part of the job is seeing the lights come back on.

“Sometimes we work long hours, but it’s rewarding, because I wouldn’t like to be left without power and I’d be happy seeing a team like us working outside my window trying to resolve it.

“Terry and I are the face of the company and speak to a lot of customers, so when a customer praises us or sees the work we have put in and is happy, that makes us happy.”

While delighted to be recognised, both paid tribute to colleagues who they said also deserved recognition for their dedication to important roles, which serve the local community.

Terry, from Chatham, Kent said: “It was brilliant to get the recognition, and very unexpected.

“We get on well together, know what we are doing, crack on with the job and chat while we are doing it.

“We went out one Christmas Day to get supplies on and everyone in the street was so nice, bringing out mince pies”

Picture: Terry Daly and Connor Smith Picture: Kit Oates