A retired station announcer returned to Wolverhampton station for one day to celebrate this year’s Railway 200, reigniting his passion and inspiring the next generation of railway staff.

Paul Matthews, 82, who first worked at Wolverhampton in 2001 after a 30-year civil service career, stepped back behind the microphone where he spent much of his time announcing trains. Despite retiring in 2010, he was eager to revisit the station, reflect on his career, and see how much had changed.

As part of the celebrations, Network Rail and West Midlands Railway welcomed Paul back with reunions with former colleagues, tours of the recently redeveloped station, and opportunities to make announcements alongside current employees for passengers.

Station announcing was Paul’s favourite role during his time with the railway. Starting his new career at the age of 57, he enjoyed a variety of positions over six years, demonstrating that it’s never too late to follow one’s passions.

Reflecting on his return, Paul said: “I have really appreciated the opportunity to come back to Wolverhampton station for the day and I enjoyed every minute of it. I loved my time working at the station and you can see that everyone here today loves it too."

On advice for those considering a career in rail, he added: “The most important thing in my book is wanting the work and showing a real interest in it. The railway really does offer a career for everyone, young or old, and I would recommend it to anyone!"

Jack Pickering, leading the Railway 200 celebrations for Network Rail Central route, said: “It’s brilliant that we’ve been able to bring Paul back to the station to help celebrate Railway 200 with us. To see and hear the passion he has for the railway is inspiring and I hope it will encourage more people to consider a career in rail."

Sam Passmore, customer experience manager for West Midlands Railway, added: “It was a real pleasure to have Paul back at Wolverhampton station, seeing him announcing after so many years. He truly is a natural – like he has never been away. Paul was so happy to see some friendly faces from his time here and have a chat with them. It brought back fond memories for us all."

Image: Network Rail