A well-known station master has decided to retire and spend his time relaxing with his grandchildren.

Don O’Brien, 70, from Theobald Street, started working for the railway in 1989 at Cricklewood and worked at various other stations including Luton, St Albans and Kings Cross.

From there, Mr O’Brien moved to Elstree and Borehamwood railway station as station master for Govia Thameslink Railway.

He said: “I have been working here for about 25 years. I have seen a lot of changes in the way stations are run.

“Nowadays there are contactless and Oyster cards. I was probably the last ever station master at Elstree.

“I have decided to retire so I can spend time with my four grandchildren. I look after them and they keep me youthful.”

On Wednesday Mr O’Brien retired from working at the station but said he really enjoyed working on the railway especially at Elstree.

He said: “I made some nice friends. I worked with a great team of people. I will miss them.

“I also met some nasty ones but that is what makes the job interesting.”

Mr O’Brien remembered some fun times he had whilst working at the station including a time they sang happy birthday over the tannoy.

He also said one time he was asked by a lady if she had to change for Kings Cross and Mr O’Brien replied “no you look lovely as you are”.

Mr O’Brien will be missed by most commuters but he is looking forward to his retirement.