A Newton Aycliffe man is ending a coveted 47-year career at Teesside Airport, soaring to the greener pastures of retirement.

Neil Appleton’s career took flight in 1975 when he signed on to work at the airport’s Motor Transport team, but he’s now hanging up his toolbelt for good.

Aged just 21, Neil took a chance and left behind a job at a garage in West Auckland after hearing about the role available at the airport.

Now, after almost half a century of service, Neil is saying bon voyage to his career and looking forward to retirement.

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He said: “I’ll just take it as it comes. We’ll have some holidays and I’ll tidy the garden up.

“I’ll just generally enjoy myself. There are lots of places in England I’ve never been to – I’ve not been to Devon or Cornwall so I’d like to see those.”

The now 68-year-old outlasted many managing directors during his time at the airport while he was hard at work fixing fire engines and all the motor-powered vehicles that are critical to the airport’s daily operations.

Despite living only 20 minutes away from the airport, Neil admitted he will miss his colleagues and reminisce upon the moments that have made the job memorable.

He said: “It’s going to the fire section as well as the baggage and fuel sections and grabbing a cup of tea to have a natter with them. It’s the friendship you have with everyone.

“When I first came, there was no security fence between the hangars and people could just walk or drive onto the apron. Things have changed a little bit now!”

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Phil Forster, managing director of Teesside International Airport, added: "I want to thank Neil for his tireless service to Teesside Airport and the wider Tees Valley.

“He has been a true stalwart of our motor transport team and his dedication, expertise and professionalism over an incredible 47 years has been second to none.

“Neil has played a vital role in keeping our vehicles running smoothly and ensuring that our airport operates safely and efficiently. He will be sorely missed, but we wish him all the best for a happy and well-deserved retirement.”