Len’s long career

News stories are free to read. Click here for full access to all the features, articles and archive from only £8.99.
Len Stanton. NXWM

Len Stanton started work as a 15-year-old apprentice at West Bromwich Corporation’s depot in 1951… and an incredible 72 years later, he’s still there! Joining the then municipally owned operator straight from school, Len had already clocked up 18 years when West Midlands PTE took over in October 1969.

He has worked through the PTE and West Midlands Travel eras into the present National Express West Midlands (NXWM) ownership – and says he has no intention of retiring. “Things here have definitely changed. We used to start engines with a starting handle! But it’s like an old coat, you just fit it on. Whatever happened I just got my head down and did my job,” he said.

Len’s achievements have been recognised by his colleagues. NXWM engineer John Guest says he has known Len since 1978. “Over the years I’ve learnt a lot from him. He’s a rock – he’s always been there. He’s become part of the furniture here at West Brom garage – half the garage was built around him and everybody knows him and what a character he is.”

[…]

Are you enjoying this feature? Why not subscribe to continue reading?

Subscribe for 6 issues/weeks from only £6Or login if you are already a subscriber

By subscribing you will benefit from:

  • Operator & Supplier Profiles
  • Face-to-Face Interviews
  • Lastest News
  • Test Drives and Reviews
  • Legal Updates
  • Route Focus
  • Industry Insider Opinions
  • Passenger Perspective
  • Vehicle Launches
  • and much more!