Busman's 1.5 million mile journey

A Teesside bus driver has clocked up more than 1.5 million miles at the wheel - without leaving his home town.

Malcolm Bell began driving buses in Hartlepool in July 1968, when Harold Wilson was prime minister and conductors still took fares.

Bosses at Stagecoach have recognised him for his 41 years of service.

The 64-year-old, of Elwick Road in the town, said he was "very proud" of his record and to have been able to meet so many different people in his career.

He was among several Stagecoach staff acknowledged for their years of loyalty and dedication.

Mr Bell said: "The best part of the job is meeting different people from different walks of life and there are some real characters in town.

"The biggest changes over the past 40 years has been the huge increase in traffic and the end of double-decker buses and conductors."

A spokesman for Stagecoach, which arrived at the total by adding up Mr Bell's estimated mileage over his 41 years, praised him for his long service.

Mr Bell said he hoped to continue in his job until he reached retirement age.

In total 78 employees have been acknowledged by Stagecoach North East after accumulating 2,275 years of service between them.

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