End of the line for Brian ‘Kipper’ Robinson after 50 years on the railways
Transported some 3,427,200 passengers over past 35 years as train driver
Brian, better known as ‘Kipper’ to colleagues and passengers, has had a long and illustrious career on the railway and is finishing a 50-year career in the very same building he started in - the North West Hub in Derry, formerly called Waterside Railway Station.
He earned the nickname ’Kipper ‘- derived from The Flying Kipper in Thomas the Tank Engine - because of his reputation as someone who liked to be on-time and punctual – a name that has stuck.
Brian is a prime example of someone who rose through the ranks with a love of the railway and five-decades of service has seen him working through many different eras and times in Northern Ireland.
His first day was back on June 24, 1974 – the same year that Richard Nixon became the first US president forced to resign after the Watergate Scandal, the Rumble in the Jungle heavyweight boxing match took place between George Foreman and Muhammad Ali, a 26-year-old author named Stephen King published his debut novel ‘Carrie’ and Sears Tower in Chicago became the world’s tallest building.
On that day he took up position as a general porter carrying out duties such as checking tickets, sweeping the platform and making the tea for the older generation of workers.
However, it wasn’t long before he qualified to be a signalman and an engineer and for following 15 years he was responsible for maintenance on the trains making sure that the community could get to and from the Maiden city on their travels safely.
Brian’s ambition meant that he was continuously learning and in January 1989 he became a qualified train driver - a role he has served in for the past 35 years transporting almost 3.5 million passengers between the Maiden City and Belfast daily.
His influence has transcended the tracks and Brian has held some senior responsibilities whilst working with Translink, Northern Ireland Railways including being the Lead Trade Union Rep for the Train Drivers in Derry. This important representation saw him attend high profile events within the business including ‘The Royal Train’ with Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II on board.
Chris Conway, Chief Executive of Translink added: “50 years is a true testament of Brian’s commitment to public service and he has played a strong part in the railway team. For that, as a community, a railway industry and as colleagues and friends, we are all eternally grateful for his dedication and service and wish him a happy and healthy retirement.
Hilton Parr, Temp. General Manager of Rail Services added: “Brian has always been happy to share his skills and knowledge to ensure that the railway keeps its high standard of service delivery - and someone who the next generation of drivers call upon for advice and support.