On Tuesday 26 September 2006 First ScotRail driver John Young, took the 08.20 Glasgow to Mallaig train for the last time, after reaching an incredible 49 years, six months and 22 days service in the railway.

His retirement day also coincided with his 65th birthday. John was joined by family, friends and fellow First ScotRail staff members on his 13.30 arrival at Mallaig, to celebrate both achievements.

To mark the occasion and to thank him for his dedication and hard work in the industry, he was presented with a framed print of a steam hauled fish train at Mallaig - now Fort William junction - as well as dinner and hotel accommodation in Fort William.

John's career is a long and highly regarded one. He joined the railway at the age of 15, in Mallaig and remained in the area throughout his career. He started out as a cleaner, assisting the drivers and firemen to prepare and clean the fires on steam trains and progressed through the railway grades to become a driver. During his career, he worked with steam trains, main line diesels and finally the Class 156 Sprinters, which currently run on his route.

John was responsible for driving the last diesel hauled passenger train out of Mallaig, followed by the first Class 156 train back in. When he joined the railway, the majority of trains running through the town were steam hauled fish trains to the south - hence the choice of gift.

Joe Mansfield, First ScotRail's team manager for the West Highlands, said; "John has been an exceptional member of the team for a long time. His experience and professionalism have taught a great many of us in the industry. We will miss him, we wish him all the very best in his retirement and thank him for all the years' service he has given."