As millions of people prepare to travel across the country this festive season, National Highways’ teams will be hard at work behind the scenes to keep the roads safe and traffic flowing.
From monitoring the network and responding to incidents, these dedicated shift workers play a vital role in ensuring motorists reach their destinations safely. While many people will be off work and enjoying time with family and friends, operators in Regional Operations Centres (ROCs) and traffic officers provide a 24/7 service.
Travel is expected to be busier than ever this year. The RAC predicts a record-breaking 37.5 million trips in the week leading up to Christmas – the highest since records began in 2013. On Christmas Day alone, drivers are expected to make 4.7 million journeys, with millions more on Boxing Day and beyond.
Across the Christmas and New Year bank holidays an average of more than 600 frontline staff from National Highways will be working in ROCs and out on the road network, helping people safely get where they need to go.
Last December, there were more than 23,300 breakdowns on motorways and major A-roads, and winter breakdowns have risen by 21% over the past five years.
With millions of journeys expected this festive season, National Highways teams will be working around the clock to keep drivers safe and the country moving.
Voices from the frontline:
Caption: Lucy Towle – National Highways Regional Operations Centre (ROC) Operator based in our East England ROC
“Lucy Towle, a ROC operator at National Highways East England ROC, said: “People usually call us on what might be the worst day of their year. For us, it’s routine, but for them it’s a crisis. We pull together to make sure they’re okay and check on each other. If I can help someone feel calmer, that means everything.”
Despite these difficult moments, the team works hard to keep spirits high, with traditions such as ‘potluck lunches’ and homemade crackers.
“We all bring something in – puddings, drinks, picky bits – and share it around. It’s like spending the day with a second family.”
Lynne Watkins, now Operations Manager at the South West ROC and formerly a National Highways Traffic Officer for seven years, said: “While I’d naturally prefer not to work over Christmas, it’s only fair to take my turn and I’m proud to do my bit to keep the network safe.”
Caption: Lynne Watkins – Operations Manager at the South West ROC
“One year, when I was out on patrol as a traffic officer, I even had to round up two goats trotting down the motorway on Christmas morning. They were happily munching on the central reservation and outwitting us at every turn! Eventually, we got them back to their field and everyone was safe. It’s all part of the job.”
“If you’re planning on a long journey over Christmas, I would advise people to follow our T.R.I.P. advice: top up fuel and fluids, rest and plan breaks, inspect tyres, and prepare for all weathers. Pop a blanket, snacks and water in your boot, just in case.
She added:
“We care about drivers on our roads and each other. Whether it’s clearing an incident or helping someone get home, that’s what makes this job rewarding.”
Denisa-Elena Ciobanu, Team Manager at the East of England ROC, said: “Working over Christmas can feel different, but it’s rewarding knowing we help families reach loved ones safely. We keep the festive spirit alive with small traditions like our ‘Feast of the East’ before our shift starts, and we take pride in making a real difference during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.”
Caption: Denisa-Elena Ciobanu – Team Manager at the East England ROC
Recalling her first Christmas in the ROC, Denisa-Elena added:
“Just days into the role, we managed a major incident together. It showed me how vital teamwork and resilience are at this time of year.”
Michael Whyatt, a National Highways Traffic Officer based on the South Coast, said: “For us, Christmas is just another day on the motorway. We’re out
Caption: Michael Whyatt – National Highways Traffic Officer based in Hampshire on the South Coast
He added: “If traffic allows, we’ll meet up for a quick bite, so no one feels alone, then head back out to keep the network moving.
“The best feeling is when you help someone get going again, whether it’s talking them through a tyre change or getting them off the motorway safely. You know you’ve made a difference.”
Travel advice
If you’re heading out on the roads over the festive period, National Highways is urging drivers to plan ahead and take extra care during winter conditions.
Follow our T.R.I.P. advice and take four simple steps before using the motorways and major A roads this winter:
- Top-up: Fuel, oil, and screen wash
- Rest: Plan regular stops every two hours to avoid driver fatigue
- Inspect: Check tyre pressure and tread
- Prepare: Have a plan for severe weather conditions
Find out more about our Winter T.R.I.P. campaign here: Have a safe T.R.I.P. this winter.
Whether it’s responding to emergencies or setting signals to keep traffic moving, National Highways’ teams are committed to making sure everyone gets home safely this Christmas. Their work behind the scenes means millions can enjoy the festive season with peace of mind.
