Youngest ever Metro driver retires after 46 years service

Phil Taylor, 65, of Bank Foot in Newcastle, was just 19 when we he got the chance to become a Metro driver.

Phil remains the youngest man to join Metro train crew, starting his career when it opened in August 1980.

He fondly recalls what it was like to work on the transport system at such a young age and when it was all new, including the same trains which are now being phased out and replaced by the new Stadler fleet.

Phil worked as a Metro driver for 14 years, before going on to play a key role training the 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.

He 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.”

Phil started his career when he joined British Rail straight from school in 1977 aged 16 as a junior, before becoming a train guard.

In more recent years at Nexus, he worked in the Metro control room. The role involves managing the safe operation of the trains out on the system. He played a big part in the introduction of its new digital signalling control system in 2018.

He added: “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 plans to spend a good chunk of his retirement having holidays with his family at his favourite destination – Disney World in Florida. They are huge Disney fans and have holidayed there 80 times. They go four times a year. Phil’s work colleagues dubbed him ‘Florida Phil’, such is his passion for Disney World

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.”