Longest-serving Arbroath driver retires after 38 years behind the wheel

• Colin Hood steps down after nearly four decades of service with Stagecoach
• Career spans Dundee, Forfar and Arbroath depots, with highlight of 2012 London Olympics
• Fond farewell from colleagues and customers across Angus and Dundee

A much-loved bus driver from Arbroath has parked his bus for the final time after an extraordinary 38-year career serving communities across Angus and Dundee.

Colin Hood, the longest-serving team member at Stagecoach’s Arbroath depot, has retired after joining the company in March 1988. Over nearly four decades, Colin has become a familiar and trusted face to generations of customers, building strong relationships across the region.

Colin began his career in Dundee as a conductor before qualifying as a driver in 1992. He went on to spend 19 years based at Forfar depot before transferring to Arbroath, where he has remained ever since.

Colin said: “I’ve had a great time at Stagecoach; what started as a job I thought I’d do for six months turned into a lifelong career. Every day was different, even when it was the same duty. I’ll really miss the people, both the customers and the drivers, but I’m looking forward to enjoying my retirement.”

One of Colin’s proudest moments came in 2012 when he was selected to work as a driver at the London Olympics, supporting one of the biggest global sporting events.

His time with the company has also shaped his personal life; Colin met his wife while she was working on the buses at Dundee Bus Station. The couple have now been married for 35 years, and buses have remained a central part of their lives, with Colin also helping his son work as a conductor.

Dean Smith, Operations Manager at Stagecoach East Scotland, said:

“Colin’s contribution over the past 38 years has been nothing short of exceptional. He represents the very best of Stagecoach: professionalism, reliability and a genuine connection with the communities we serve.

“He has been a hugely respected and popular member of the team, and his knowledge, experience and sense of humour will be greatly missed by colleagues and customers alike. On behalf of everyone at Stagecoach, we thank Colin for his outstanding service and wish him a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.”

Colin retires aged 60 and is looking forward to spending more time with his family and enjoying a well-earned rest after a remarkable career on the road.