Go North East has paid tribute to two of its longest serving engineers, William ‘Billy’ Cummings and John Jackson, who have each hit the milestone of 50 years with the operator.
The duo began their careers in the early 1970s. Billy joined at the age of 16 and has spent his entire career as a trimmer at the company’s Saltmeadows engineering site, specialising in repairing and maintaining bus interiors. John meanwhile joined as an electrician at Riverside depot, introduced to the trade by his brother, himself a bus driver.
“I’ve always been happy at work, so I’ve never really thought about leaving,” Bill says. “I enjoy what I do, but it’s the camaraderie and friendships with my workmates that have kept me coming back.”
Adds John: “At the time, I was just glad to have a job because unemployment was so high. I’ve worked with a smashing bunch of lads over the years – that’s what I’ll remember most.”
Nigel Featham, Managing Director at Go North East, pays tribute to the pair: “A huge thank you and congratulations to John and Billy for an incredible combined 100 years of service. Their commitment, pride and skill exemplify everything that’s great about our industry – and about Go North East. The company simply wouldn’t be the same without long-serving colleagues like them. It’s inspiring to see people who’ve built their entire careers here.”
