A CLEANER at Barnsley Interchange who regularly goes the ‘extra mile’ has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award.
Jean Ellen Flavell, who lives in the town centre, is a face that many people who use the transport hub see on a regular basis.
She can regularly be found speaking to passengers alongside her cleaning something Jean believes is the best bit of the job.
She said: “I love cleaning, it’s a hobby of mine anyway and I love doing the job.
“I get on really well with everyone here, especially the customers they are the best part as you can interact with them.
“The people that don’t really talk to anyone, and just come in once a week to do some shopping, you talk to them and it really makes their day.
“I’ll to talk to anyone, young or old, and if they want a bus I’m happy to help them or if someone’s ill I’m happy to step in.
“I’m really happy that people appreciate me to be honest, I really love helping people and going above and beyond for anybody.”
Jean started the job around four years ago, after caring for her dad who passed away.
After going through a spell of ‘not going anywhere or doing anything’, Jean applied for a job at the interchange and has found the job has really helped her.
She added: “When I first came here, I was a different person, I was quiet and I kept myself to myself to be honest.
“But as time has gone on I’ve talked to and interacted with people a lot more, I really love it.”
Jean has been said to ‘above and beyond’ in her job which sometimes consists of long hours but she insists that it feels like part of the job.
“I don’t mind doing extra for anybody, the older ladies and gentlemen can have their day made by someone talking to them, they sometimes haven’t spoken to anyone for days,” they said.
“We normally just have a little conversation and I say hello and ask if they’re alright.
“There’s one man who I got to know who started singing to me and I told him he had a beautiful voice, so when he comes in most days he starts singing for me.”
Jean was nominated by Marie Seargent who said: “Jean works many hours, not just cleaning but going the extra mile for everyone who uses the bus station.
“Whether it’s a friendly chat, offering general assistance, helping people catch the right bus or first aid, Jean is always there with a friendly face.
”She is an asset to Barnsley bus station, as I am sure many would agree. She always goes the extra mile.”
