A train driver was caught breaking into tears of happiness after finishing his last shift following 52 years on the job.

69-year-old Joe Crean from Glossop, England, has worked as a train driver for more than five decades before deciding to indulge in much-deserved retirement.

After his final ride in Manchester, the man walked off the train and received a long round of applause as he was greeted by a number of passengers who wanted to express their gratitude for years of service.

Overcome with emotion, Joe broke into tears before wiping them off and putting on a big smile.

“I have over half a century of cherished memories on the railway, and it means a lot to have shared my final journey with both my family and my railway family,” the dedicated employee told BBC.

“I’m looking forward to spending more time with my wife, Christine, my sons Gary and Shane, and extended family, who thoughtfully came to see my final drive.”

As Joe explained, he began working in the railways scene when he was just 17 years old. While he started off with the position of a steward, his hard work had paid off and he went on to become a train driver.

“Joe’s retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy and contributions towards the future generation of drivers will carry on,” TransPennine Express managing director Matthew Golton said in a tribute to the dedicated worker.

The video showing Joe breaking into tears following his last ride has since gone viral on social media where thousands of viewers paid their respects to the train driver.

“Where would we be without all our public service drivers. Thank you to all of them,” someone wrote.

“Well done on your dedication to your job. You are obviously proud to it. Happy retirement,” another said.

What are your thoughts on this story? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends. For more news and stories, follow us on Facebook!