Lisburn News

Last stop for William after 44 years on the buses

William Thompson receiving a retirement gift from Translink Service Delivery Manager Jim McCauley. Looking on are Inspectors - Martin McKeown, Robin Mackin and Michael Stewart (left) and Clerks - Klm Stewart and Graham Catney and Gerard McKavanagh, Parcel Messenger (right).

William Thompson

Ulsterbus Chief Clerk William Thompson who retired on Friday June 29 after nearly 44 years on the buses.

On July 6 1968, Ballykeel man William started his long career at Ulsterbus as a Clerk in Lisburn covering holiday relief for two months, with hindsight - a long two months. His duties as Clerk included administering driver pay-ins, mileage cards and drivers' overtime charts.

After much anxiety and thought William applied for the role of Chief Clerk in Lisburn and was successfully appointed to the post in January 1990.

Whilst recalling nearly 44 years working on the buses, he has many very happy memories, especially of all the people he has met and worked with.

William has decided to take early retirement to allow him to spend more time with his wife Mavis and also his second love - gardening.

The staff at Lisburn's new Bus centre wish William a long and happy retirement.

Ulster Star
06/07/2012