The youngest ever driver on the Tyne and Wear Metro has retired from the operator after 46 years of service. Phil Taylor, 65 from Bank Foot in Newcastle, was just 19 when he started his career on the network – and he remains the youngest to have been a driver to this day.
He worked as a driver for the first 14 years before moving into roles training other drivers. He then became a Metro Operations Manager, dealing with incidents on the system, before taking his most recent role based in the Metro control room as a Service Delivery Controller.
Reminiscing about his career, Phil said: “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.”
Kevin Storey, Operations Director at Nexus, said: “Phil has given us excellent service for over 45 years. He’s a been a key member of our team and has helped to mentor so many of the workforce in all different areas of Metro operations through the roles he’s had. We wish him all the best for his retirement.”