Train driver breaks down in tears at end of last shift after 52-year career

He'd been working on the railways since the age of 17

Joe Crean, from Glossop, Derbyshire, pulled into Manchester Piccadilly station on Monday for the final time before his retirement to a crowd of people who had come to pay tribute to his remarkable 52 years of service.

And the emotion of the moment got the better of the 69-year-old as he put his hand to his face as the tears started to flow.

Family and friends had gathered on the platform to wave him off and were pictured carrying black and white balloons and congratulatory bunting for him.

After driving the TransPennine Express train for the final time, Joe was given a sash that read: 'Officially retired', along with a certificate marking his long career with the railway network.

Joe began working on the railways back in 1971 when he was just 17 years old, starting off as a steward in the dining car for British Rail before eventually working his way up to become a train driver.

After completing his final journey before retirement, Joe told the BBC: "I have over half a century of cherished memories on the railway, and it means a lot to have shared my final journey with both my family and my railway family.

"I'm looking forward to spending more time with my wife, Christine, my sons Gary and Shane, and extended family, who thoughtfully came to see my final drive."

Matthew Golton, managing director at TransPennine Express, said: 'Joe's retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy and contributions towards the future generation of drivers will carry on.' 

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