A CAREER on the railways spanning almost half a century comes to an end for one of Silverlink's longest-serving drivers this month.

Mr Arnold Leah, 63, who works at Watford Junction Station in Station Road, pulled away from the platform for the final time last week after 48 years in the driver's seat.

A surprise ceremony to mark his retirement was held at the station last Friday and a train was named in his honour.

Before his final journey to Kilburn High Road, Mr Leah, of St Mary's Road, Watford, said: 'I didn't know what was going on. As far as I was concerned I was meeting management and then I came out and faced this lot.

'I've worked almost 49 years and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I've met nice people and enjoyed the company.'

Managing director of Silverlink Mr Charles Belcher, said: 'Mr Leah has been at Watford for as long as people can remember. He has safely transported millions of passengers over the years. He's a walking encyclopaedia of railway knowledge. To replace him will be impossible.'

Operations manager of Silverlink Metro Mr Tim Shoveller added: 'Arnie has been a frontline player in the rail industry. His dedication and professionalism is an inspiration to us all.'

Mr Leah began working at the station on Christmas Eve in 1951, aged 14, with his twin brother, John. Their train-driving father had put their names down to work in the railway industry when they were born.

Having started his career in the days of steam, Mr Leah has clocked up nearly a million miles during his career.

Based at Watford Junction throughout, he has witnessed the rebuilding of Euston Station and the electrification of the West Coast Main Line.