For the past 50 years Terry Roberts has made sure his train passengers have been given the best quality service on their travels.

But after his train pulled into Wolverhampton station following the familiar route from London Euston at 4.30pm yesterday, the popular worker bid a fond farewell to his colleagues and customers – and the job he has loved for so long. Staff gathered on the platform to hand over gifts to the grandfather, from Wheaton Aston in South Staffordshire.

He completed his final trip for Virgin Rail and some workers even made sure they were aboard on their day off to share the trip with him.

They also collected £400 as a gift, which he has decided to donate to Cancer Research.

Terry first joined British Rail at the age of 15, carrying out a number of jobs including serving tea and coffee to customers.

He then worked his way up the ranks, spending the past 35 years as service manager, including when Virgin took over the franchise around 10 years ago.

He has become well-known among customers and regulars even reserved a carriage on his final train journey to say their own farewells.

But after five decades of work, Terry, who celebrates his 65th birthday today, has decided it’s time to hand over his badge and uniform to retire.

Widowed Terry, who has a son Simon, aged 34, daughter Caroline, 30, and three-year-old grandson Harvey, said: “They gave me such a wonderful send-off. I wasn’t expecting it at all and so it was wonderful.

“It is sad to go but I am looking forward to having more time to look after my grandson and getting a dog. When the weather is nicer I will also be going on holiday in the caravan.”

Colleagues described Terry as a “legend” on the trains and said they were sad to see him go.

Sue Newman, assistant service manager who has worked with Terry for around 12 years, said: “He is just a wonderful man and everybody loves him.

“He has been working on the trains for what seems like forever and it will never be the same without him.

“I just can’t believe he has retired.

“I can’t imagine what it will be like.”