Train driver who became YouTube star retires

Mr Coffey was joined by his wife Elaine and daughter Becky for his last shift

A train driver who raised more than £80,000 for charity after he became an unlikely hit on YouTube has retired.

Don Coffey, who worked for TransPennine Express (TPE), began filming and giving commentary on his routes in 2017.

Since then his content has been viewed in over 100 countries and more than 50,000 people have subscribed to his channel.

Most of the money he has raised has been donated to the Samaritans charity, which works with the rail industry to prevent suicides.

Mr Coffey's departure was marked on a display screen

The 66-year-old, from Chapel-en-le-Frith in Derbyshire, said: "It never occurred to me how popular it would get.

"It grew and grew to the point where YouTube actually started to get in touch with me and say you know you should be monetizing this - we'll pay you and it continues to grow."

Companies pay to advertise on his YouTube channel and as it has grown in popularity the revenue has increased.

He gets permission from rail operators to place a camera on the front of trains to film a view of the route.

Captions on his clips give his perspective on the routes as a driver along with facts about its history.

Despite retiring as a driver he plans to keep filming journeys for YouTube.

"The support from colleagues, viewers and everyone who's backed our charitable efforts has meant more than I can say," he added.

"Now I'm really looking forward to the next chapter — especially being able to spend more time with my wife and family."

Don Coffey started his career as a train driver in 2003

Mr Coffey started his career as a train driver working for Northern Rail in 2003 on the line between Buxton and Manchester.

He became a manager for Northern Rail in 2010 but joined TransPennine Express in 2013 as a driver.

Last year he won TPE's Driver of the Year Award along with the 'Richard Hope' Award at the Rail Business Awards earlier this year for his outstanding contribution to the industry.

For his final day on Monday he was joined by wife Elaine and daughter Becky as he completed the return route between Manchester and Huddersfield.

Chris Jackson, Managing Director for TransPennine Express, said: "Don's contribution to TPE and the wider rail industry has been outstanding.

"From his dedication on the tracks to his tireless charity work, he has set an example that embodies the very best of our railway family.

"On behalf of everyone at TPE, I want to thank Don for everything he has given - he will be truly missed, and we wish him all the very best in his retirement."