The youngest person to join the Tyne and Wear Metro as a driver is now retiring after nearly 50 years of service.

Phil Taylor, 65, joined at 19 when the Metro opened in 1980, starting his career.

He was a driver for 14 years before moving into driver training, then became a Metro Operations Manager.

From there, he moved into his current role as a Service Delivery Controller and, in 2018, played a key role in the introduction of the digital signalling control system.

“I’ve always been proud to work for the Tyne and Wear Metro. I was just 19 when I was lucky enough to become a driver. I was the youngest member of the team and that record has stood for all these years, not least because they changed the age limit for the role.

“It was an exciting time to join the team. The Metro was a new concept for the region and millions of pounds had been spent making it become a reality.

“I found myself at the age of 19 getting the chance to drive the trains when they were shiny and new. I vividly recall being told each one was worth a million quid.

“All of the drivers were proud to be a part of it. It was such a big achievement, and the system was delivering something huge for the region.

“Back then the technology on board was all cutting edge and seen as the best in the industry. It is sad to see the current fleet being phased out. They have served our customers for close to 46 years. There is great fondness for them, but the time is right for them to go.

“The new trains are lovely. Really great. Later this year, all the old ones will be gone and it’ll all be new trains. It’s an exciting time for the Metro.”

“I will miss Metro. I’ve always enjoyed the roles I’ve had, and I’ve made some great friends. All my working life has been on the railways, and it’s given me a brilliant career.”

Phil Taylor