A bus was pulled by staff at Arriva Midlands to celebrate the retirement of the last former Midland Red employee at the firm’s Shrewsbury Garage.
Robert Davies, who recently celebrated his 65th birthday, joined Midland Red in November 1965 and has driven his bus for the last time after 46 years of service.
Mr Davies was honoured by past and present colleagues in a special tow-the-bus ceremony at the town’s Ditherington depot.
He joined the firm at the age of 18 as a conductor before finding his niche as a driver at the age of 21.
He said: “It’s been a very enjoyable job and it might take some adjusting on Monday morning when I realise I don’t have to come into work, but I’m sure I’ll manage.
“One of the things I always enjoyed was the amount of people you met from all walks of life and there’s always been a good bunch of people working here, too.”
Mr Davies admitted driving a bus was easier when he first started. “I don’t think there was as much stress back then but the vehicles are certainly a lot better and warmer.”
