A train driver who has worked on the railways for more than five decades was sent off with a round of applause by passengers and friends as he finished his last journey before retirement which left him overwhelmed with emotion.

Joe Crean, from Glossop, Derbyshire, pulled into Manchester Piccadilly station on Monday for the final time to a crowd of people hailing his 52 years of service.

As he got off the train, Joe, 69, could not contain his emotions and put his hand to his face as he broke down in tears.

Applauding loved ones 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’, plus a certificate marking his long career with the railway network.

Joe, who began working on the railways in 1971 when he was just 17 years old.

He started off as a steward in the dining car for British Rail before working his way up to become a train driver.

As he signed off from work for one last time, 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.’

Joe Crean, 69, from Glossop in Derbyshire, retired this week after 52 years on the railways and became overwhelmed with emotion as he stepped off his final train journey

As he stepped off  his last TransPennine Express train, Joe was greeted by a round of applause from friends and loved ones

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.’

After the video of Joe’s emotional farewell was posted on Facebook, people wished him well in the comments.

One person wrote: ‘Oh poor love he must really love that job he got attached yes that can happen happy retirement well done Joe.’

Another said: ‘Where would we be without all our public service drivers. Thank you to all of them.’

A third person wrote: ‘Well done on your dedication to your job. You are obviously proud to it. Happy retirement.’

Source: dailymail