A Tyne and Wear Metro veteran who set a record as its youngest train driver when the system launched in 1980 is hanging up his uniform after almost 50 years of dedicated service.
Phil Taylor, 65, from Bank Foot in Newcastle, was just 19 when he stepped into the driver’s cab, making history as the youngest member of the Metro train crew—a record that still stands today.
Phil began his Metro career in August 1980, when the network first opened, and recalls the excitement of working on a pioneering transport system that transformed travel across the region.
“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.”
Back then, the Metro was a bold new concept, with millions invested to make it a reality. Phil vividly remembers the pride of driving brand-new trains that were considered cutting-edge at the time.
“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.”
Phil spent 14 years as a driver before moving into training roles, helping shape the next generation of Metro drivers. His career then progressed to Metro Operations Manager, where he handled incidents across the network, and later to Service Delivery Controller in the Metro control room—a role critical to the safe and efficient running of services.
He also played a key part in introducing Metro’s new digital signalling control system in 2018, marking another milestone in the network’s evolution.
Reflecting on the changes, Phil said:
“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’s railway journey began even earlier—joining British Rail straight from school in 1977 as a junior before becoming a train guard. His entire working life has been on the railways, something he looks back on with pride.
“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.”
As he steps into retirement, Phil plans to indulge his passion for Disney World in Florida—a destination he and his family have visited an astonishing 80 times. Known affectionately by colleagues as ‘Florida Phil,’ he intends to keep the tradition alive with regular trips.
Metro operator Nexus paid tribute to Phil’s exceptional contribution.
Kevin Storey, Operations Director at Nexus, said:
“Phil has given us excellent service for over 45 years. He’s 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.”
Image credit: Nexus
