Oxford Bus Company bus and coach builder Nigel Brown hangs up his overalls – 50 years after his first shift

Oxford Bus Company bid farewell to one of its longest-serving members of staff this month following more than half a century of service in the group’s bus and coach building department.

Nigel Brown completed his last shift at Oxford Bus Company’s Cowley headquarters and left the depot for one final time to applause and congratulations from colleagues – some of whom he’s worked with for over 40 years.

The 66-year-old married father of two started his role as an apprentice coach builder in the summer of 1974, just 66 hours after leaving Headington Senior School as a teenager.

Nigel completed his apprenticeship, met Prime Ministers and has kept Oxfordshire’s roads moving by working on every vehicle operated by Oxford Bus Company for over 50 years. But he’s now decided to hang up his overalls in favour of retirement and take time to reflect on his outstanding career.

“My dad told me I had to get a proper job after school,” said Nigel. “And that’s exactly what I did.

“I’m not the biggest person in the world, on my first day no overalls in the depot were small enough to fit me. I was so keen to get started I told my supervisor at the time I didn’t need overalls – I just wanted to start work.

“So much has changed since my first day. The buses we operate today are unrecognisable to what people travelled on in the 70s – they’re fully electric with power steering and brakes.

“It would be impossible to stay in work for 50 years with the same company and not enjoy it.

“I will really miss the problem-solving, camaraderie and people. Choosing to retire wasn’t an easy decision but I’m very grateful for my time with Oxford Bus Company and the people I’ve worked with.”

Nigel’s final day started with a trip to BBC Radio Oxford’s studios in Summertown where he appeared as a special guest on Adam Ball’s daytime show.

The production team held a surprise on-air retirement party including cake, celebrations and messages from those he worked closest with. Among the first to congratulate Nigel was Mark Bowyer who joined Oxford Bus Company’s coach building team in 1976 – two years after Nigel’s first day.

“It’s the end of an era,” said Mark. “When we were younger, Nigel and I worked together and played football together with Forest Hill – we have some great memories.

“It’s been great working with and knowing Nigel who’s become a close friend.”

Wayne McKay, engineering manager at Oxford Bus Company, added: “Working with Nigel for the last 30 years has been a pleasure and I wish him all the best in retirement. Just remember, the van never turns left!”

Luke Marion, managing director of Oxford Bus Company, said: “A huge thank you to Nigel and everything he had achieved with Oxford Bus Company since joining the team 50 years ago.

“Not only is Nigel’s 50-year employment incredible, but also his eternal enthusiasm for the job which he articulated perfectly to the team before hanging up his overalls. 

“The role of Nigel and his colleagues is essential in keeping Oxfordshire’s roads moving so everyone can continue with their day-to-day routines. We wish Nigel and his family the very best and for a long and deserved retirement.”