Touching tribute unveiled at Amersham station in memory of Joshua Langley

Joshua Langley, 24, more popularly known as Josh, sadly died on February 5, 2019 with his loved ones praising him for his strength and desire to “do more” in his community despite his condition.

And this week, on what would have been his 27th birthday, a commemorative plaque was unveiled at Amersham station in his memory.

Josh’s family joined representatives from Amersham Action Group, Chesham and District Transport Users group and Transport for London on the station platform as the plaque was officially unveiled by Cllr Mimi Harker on June 29.

Josh campaigned for the station to have a lift installed in the station, alongside other campaigners, with the station finally becoming step-free earlier this year after a hard-fought battle.

Cllr Harker spearheaded the campaign for a lift and described Josh as a “determined campaigner who lobbied continuously, together with local groups”.

She added: “I’m just delighted to have worked with so many enthusiastic, dedicated, hard-working people all so keen to pull together to create this fantastic solution for our station, our community and town.

The plaque at Amersham Station

“Josh was an integral part of the team that brought home this project. I’ve made some friends for life I hope and I know who to ask and turn to when I need campaigning buddies in the future.

“This is a brilliant asset for all of us and makes the world, and Amersham, more accessible.”

And speaking about the plaque, she said: “The commemorative plaque will be a lasting legacy to Josh Langley and his contribution towards the success of achieving step free access.

“Josh’s determination, humour and tenacity helped Amersham to achieve this dream.”

His mum, Jane Langley, spoke about her son, saying the lift “represents freedom”.

She said: “This lift represents freedom for not just people with disabilities, but also for anyone with pushchairs, or unable to use the stairs.

Josh's family including his mum, aunt, brother, his grandmother and sister

“Josh would be so proud if he was here today. We are so proud of everything Josh achieved. He showed determination and grit in everything he did in life.”

Esther Sharples, London Underground’s director of asset performance and capital delivery, added: “We are so pleased to support this commemorative plaque in Josh Langley’s memory and pay tribute to his tireless work in highlighting the importance of making travel easier for people with accessibility needs.

“Amersham Underground station became our 81st step-free Underground station earlier this year and we are working hard to modernise more stations, improving journeys for thousands of people.”