TRIBUTES have poured in for an Elizabeth Line worker who tragically died after being assaulted at an east London station last week.

Jorge Ortega was taken to hospital with serious head injuries after he was attacked at Ilford station on Wednesday evening.

The 61-year-old, who worked as a customer experience assistant, died two days later.

In a statement released by the British Transport Police, Mr Ortega’s family said: “Our dad was the most loving person, the kindest soul you could have the pleasure of meeting. 

“Everyone who has met our dad or who has ever worked with him over the years will tell you this.

“He was an amazing family man and would always put other people first. 

“We can only hope to be like him. Dad is and will always be in our hearts.”

Mick Lynch, general secretary of RMT, of which Mr Ortega was a member, said the union was “deeply saddened” by his death.

“The whole union sends its condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at this awful time and everyone’s thoughts at RMT are with them,” Mr Lynch said.

“We will keep a close eye on legal proceedings and will comment further in due course when it is appropriate.”

Rail union TSSA general secretary Maryam Eslamdoust wrote on X that the attack “highlights the growing dangers faced by transport workers” and called for urgent action to address the rising number of assaults including stronger protective measures at stations.

Mr Ortega’s employer MTREL said that he had been a “dedicated member of the railway community for 24 years.”

Mike Bagshaw, managing director of the firm, said: “He has lost his life simply for carrying out his job, everyone has the right to feel safe and protected at work and this tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unacceptable abuse faced by rail colleagues.”

Ayodele Jamgbadi, 28, has been charged with grievous bodily harm, affray and possession of a prohibited offensive weapon in a private place in connection with the incident.

He is due to appear at Inner London Crown Court on January 7.