Mechanic retires after 50 years (From The Northern Echo)

Mechanic retires after 50 years

4:22pm Friday 3rd July 2009 in

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A CAR technician is hanging up his tools after 50 years under the bonnet.

John Watson is retiring from Darlington Vauxhall dealership Sherwoods where he has worked for the past 26 years.

The 65-year-old began working in the car industry aged 15 as an apprentice mechanic and has seen the job develop as cars have evolved.

"It used to be all about spanners and wrenches, now we use laptops and diagnostic computers," said Mr Watson, of Darlington. "It's all very technical now but I have seen a massive increase in efficiency over the years."

He has decided to retire to spend more time with his wife Helen and pursue his hobby of caravanning.

Sherwoods managing director Alasdair MacConachie said: "John has been an outstanding member of staff and given 26 years of exemplary service to the business, Vauxhall and our customers."

Mr Watson was presented with a watch and a TV/DVD player for his caravan.