UK - Minding the gap: widow missed her husband's voice, and now it will be restored

[wfgodot]

Mind the Gap Tube announcement returns after wife's plea (BBC News)

A 40-year-old "mind the gap" recording once heard across the Tube is returning to one station - so the widow of the actor behind it can hear his voice.

Oswald Laurence's voice was used on the northbound Northern Line but was phased out until only Embankment used it.

Dr Margaret McCollum said she often uses the station and was devastated when "he wasn't there" in November.
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Dr McCollum said she used to frequently travel via Embankment and loved hearing her husband's voice, even when he was alive.

"Since he died I would sit and wait for the next train until I heard his voice.

"On 1 November he wasn't there. I was just stunned when Oswald wasn't there anymore.

"I inquired and I was told there was a new digital system and they could not get his voice on it."
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London Underground director Nigel Holness said: "Transport for London were approached by the widow of Oswald Laurence to see whether she could get a copy of the iconic 'mind the gap' announcement her husband made over 40 years ago.

"We were very touched by her story, so staff tracked down the recording and not only were they able to get a copy of the announcement on CD for her to keep but are also working to restore the announcement at Embankment station."
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much more at the link above

 

[ohiogirl]

This could be in the News that makes you smile section. Thanks Wfgodot.

 

[wfgodot]

This could be in the News that makes you smile section. Thanks Wfgodot.

Thought about putting it there. Was something slightly bittersweet about it (though with emphasis on the "sweet") so I couldn't decide.

 

[waitin'4thewrld2chg]

How sad and how sweet. I can imagine sitting and waiting for the voice.

Didn't know what "the gap" was, though. I guess I don't get out much lol. Now I'll know to mind it.

 

[wfgodot]

It's the small gap between the train door and the station platform.

"Mind the gap" (Wiki)