My first impression of Margaret was of her straightforwardness – if she didn’t agree with something, she was upfront about it, and I witnessed some people getting that message whether they liked it or not! Of course, as I learned, this was because she had earned enormous respect from everyone that knew her and worked with her, for her expertise and dedication. Earlier this year I marvelled at her authority and aplomb as she effortlessly fielded questions from directors at Rail Strategy & Policy Board.

It was sometime after my initial impression that I learned that she was also incredibly warm and friendly, and genuinely happy to help and work together. That’s what I’ll remember, and miss, about her.