TRAIN drivers’ union Aslef announced Dave Calfe as its new general secretary today.

He won the race to succeed Mick Whelan with 4,556 votes to Simon Weller’s 2,951, with a 33.4 per cent turnout.

Mr Whelan, who announced he was stepping down to retire at 65 earlier this year, said: “Dave has been Aslef’s EC president for the last seven years, during which time it’s been my pleasure to work with him. 

“I know what a formidable representative he is for our grade and I know that this great union will continue to advocate tirelessly for train drivers under his leadership. Together we will go from strength to strength.”

Announcing a transitional process to handover to Mr Calfe, he congratulated both candidates “on the comradely, positive, and respectful way in which they conducted this campaign.”

He also commiserated Mr Weller, who has been his deputy since he became general secretary in 2011.

Mr Calfe, who was in the same-west London depot as Mr Whelan as a driver, said: “I would like to thank all the members of Aslef who have put their trust in me to be the next general secretary.

“I look forward to representing our union in the years ahead – working for, and in the best interests of, all our members across every sector – and building upon the great work that our current GS, Mick, has done.

“I would also like to thank our assistant general secretary Simon for his comradeship during the campaign, and I look forward to continuing to work together.”