04-07-2025
Train driver completes final LNER journey after 46 years ‘up front'
An North East train driver has completed his final journey after a career spanning nearly five decades.
Mick Ingledew, 65, of LNER, began his career with British Rail in January 1979 as a traction trainee, starting a 46-year journey that would see him travel millions of miles across the UK rail network.
He was inspired to join the railway while working for a council, after a friend's parent, who was a train driver, suggested he apply.
Mick Ingledew sets off on his final journey (Image: North News)
Mr Ingledew, of Newcastle, said: "The start of my career was very exciting, working on the powerful Deltics and working with fantastic, experienced drivers."
His early years were spent driving the iconic Deltic locomotives, and he later moved into freight, working at Tyne Yard before becoming a driver manager in 1989.
He returned to driving around a decade ago and spent his final years at the controls of LNER's modern Azuma trains.
(Image: North News)
Mr Ingledew said: "I then spent some time in the freight industry, driving in Tyne Yard, which was pure passion for me, before taking the step into driver management in 1989.
"I returned back to being a driver around 10 years ago and I was welcomed back with open arms.
"The people are wonderful – we are one big family – and I have the best view, out of anyone, from my office window.
LNER driver Mick Ingledew up front one last time (Image: North News)
"It's been a brilliant career, and I would do it all again."
On Thursday, July 3, he made his final journey, departing Newcastle at 8.58am for London King's Cross and returning on the 2.30pm service, accompanied by his daughter Lisa and son David.
During his career, Mr Ingledew became one of the few drivers authorised to operate trains across the entire LNER route, including diversion lines.
This allowed him to drive from London to Leeds, York, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Inverness.
Mick Ingledew, centre with daughter Lisa and son David (Image: North News)
His daughter, Lisa Brigham, said: "It's a really emotional day.
"My dad's incredible, he's been on the railway more than 45 years now.
"I'm incredibly proud of him and what he's achieved."
His son, David Ingledew, added: "I'm immensely proud of my dad and what he has achieved in his working career.
"He has worked extremely hard throughout his working life, sacrificing a lot to give us a good life."
Rachel Hardy, Mick's driver manager at LNER, paid tribute to his dedication and character.
READ MORE:
Date set for County Durham by-election after councillor resignation due to ill health
Rugby star with Monaco royal link returns to North East school - with his team
Lidl unveils official plans for new store on site of former blaze-hit hotel
She said: "He always has a story to tell about 'the old days' and is a true living legend of the railway."
Reflecting on his career, Mr Ingledew said: "Passion has been in my blood for more than 45 years.
"You polish your shoes, you want to look the best and wear your uniform with pride, every day you go home wanting to think that you've done the best you could have done in every situation.
"Train driving is a brilliant career path and I've had so many opportunities.
"I'd recommend it to anyone."
