Anthony Kidd is one of 16 apprentice drivers from north London recruited at Euston for a new daily run to Stirling.
He decided to ‘swap the cobbles for the cab’ and learn how to drive a train for a living.
“This is a complete career change for me,” Anthony admits. “But it’s the right decision, despite not having previously worked in the industry.
“I have family who do work on the railways and they’ve all recommended it.”
Many recruits are joining from completely different backgrounds, like Anthony who was a freelance art director at ITV Studios working on Corrie.
The apprentices began their nine-month training this week for Lumo rail operators which already runs trains from King’s Cross to Edinburgh.
Lindsay Gauntlett, the company’s ‘people resources’ manager, said: “Nearly all our staff have gone through apprenticeships — the milestone last year was 95 per cent, which helps people wanting to work in the rail industry regardless of any previous career or background.”
The rail company is currently waiting for Office of Rail and Road approval for the Euston expansion.
