Teenage train drivers could help staff shortages

A train driver has claimed allowing 18-year-olds to drive locomotives could tackle a shortage as many staff approach retirement.

Bernard Kennedy from Stable Hill in Bristol has worked in the rail industry for 42 years, 33 years of which he was a train driver.

Speaking on BBC Radio Bristol Mr Kennedy welcomed the government's decision to lower the minimum age to be a train driver to 18 from 20-years-old.

He said: "At first I was a bit concerned or suspicious but having given it some thought, I've come to the conclusion that if you're young enough to get married, to vote, to fight and die for your country, you're old enough to be a train driver."

"It's a big responsibility but given the proper training, overall it's not a problem," Mr Kennedy added.

A lot of train drivers are currently retiring, Mr Kennedy said, which prompted the decision to lower the minimum age.

"The train companies have been aware of this. Some of them have been recruiting but others not so," he said.

The average age of a UK train driver is 48, with 30% set to reach retirement age by 2029, according to the Department for Transport.

In addition, the department said many cancellations made the night before are due to driver shortages.

"I would think lowering the age would help if they're successful in recruiting that many people," Mr Kennedy said.

"All those things is why you see cancellations or trains arriving in Temple Meads with half the carriages they should have."

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.