Sunderland bus driver Joe parks up after incredible half-a-century of service
Sunderland bus driver sees five decades of service recognised with award
A retiring Sunderland bus driver with an incredible half-a-century of service helping to transport the city’s people has been recognised with a special award.
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Joe Carr has been recognised by Stagecoach North East after an incredible 50 years of service with the company.
Joe joined Stagecoach’s Sunderland operation in 1976 as a bus driver and went on to shape generations of drivers through senior training and driving standards roles. During his distinguished career, he “helped uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism and customer service while mentoring countless colleagues entering the industry”.
In recognition of his service, Joe has received a Long Service Award from the company.
Joe was joined by four colleagues who together have clocked up an extraordinary combined 235 years of service.
Also receiving the award was Julie Baldwin for 40 years’ service, Alan Sutherland, for 45 years’ service from the Walkergate depot in Newcastle, and Peter Buzzeo who has been based at Slatyford depot for 45 years.
Incredibly, Joe’s five decades of service was beaten by Norman Fullard, who, after joining Stagecoach in 1971, has reached an extraordinary 55 years with the business.
Steve Walker, managing director of Stagecoach North East, said: "Bus services are built on the dedication, professionalism and commitment of our people, and these five colleagues represent the very best of our industry.
"Between them, Julie, Alan, Peter, Joe and Norman have contributed more than 230 years of service to customers and communities across the North East.
“Their knowledge, experience and passion have helped shape our business and inspired generations of colleagues and we are incredibly proud to celebrate this remarkable milestone and thank them for their outstanding contribution to Stagecoach and to public transport in the region."
The Long Service Awards recognise employees from across Stagecoach who have “demonstrated exceptional loyalty and commitment throughout their careers, helping deliver safe, reliable and sustainable transport for millions of customers every year”.
Earlier this week, Stagecoach announced it was temporarily renaming its E1 route ‘Jordan Pick-up’ in recognition of the achievements of Washington lad and England’s number one, Jordan Pickford.