Don’t let age be a barrier: Still thriving at Travelodge at 76

When did you join Travelodge, and what made you want to start a new chapter with the company at this stage in your career?

I started working for Travelodge 14 years ago, when I was 62. I spent 30 years in the fire service, which I thoroughly enjoyed, but had to retire when I reached 55.

I quickly realised retirement wasn’t for me. I wanted something to keep me busy, so I took a job at a builders’ merchants. I really enjoyed it, but unfortunately the company went bankrupt and I was made redundant, so I retired again.

It wasn’t long before I realised I still wanted to work, and that’s when I joined Travelodge. I wanted a role that would keep me active and give me something to focus on so when I saw the opportunity to join Travelodge’s maintenance team, I felt it aligned with what I was looking for.

I particularly enjoy the plumbing work as I’m a trained plumber. I liked that the role wasn’t office-based. Every day is different, I like being active and I get to travel around and work in different hotels. I’m now 76 and still really enjoying my job. 

Have you taken part in any development opportunities since joining Travelodge? And what support did Travelodge give?

Travelodge was very supportive when I first joined. I had two weeks of training so I could understand my role and what I needed to do. All the tools and equipment were explained to us, and I also completed an electrical course, so I was ready to go out into the field.

What does being one of Travelodge’s older colleagues mean to you? 

Being taken on at 62 was a little bit of a surprise to me. I thought they might have been looking for younger people, but I was fortunate that my qualifications and experience were valued.

Now, at 76, I’m proud to still be working and enjoying what I do. I’ve been able to continue working here for 14 years. I think it shows that age doesn’t have to be a barrier to finding a job you enjoy.

What do you enjoy about working with colleagues of different ages? 

At Travelodge, you come across a really wide range of ages. I thoroughly enjoy working with younger colleagues, and I think they look upon me as something of a grandfather figure and come to me for advice.

I’ve also made a lot of friends during my 14 years with Travelodge. Colleagues have become good friends, and that’s one of the things I’ll miss when I eventually retire.

What skills from your previous career have helped you in your role at Travelodge?

Some of the skills I learned in the fire service have carried over really well. You have to think for yourself and take responsibility for your actions.

I’m often working independently, so being able to assess a situation, make decisions and get on with the job is really important.

What does a typical day look like for you, and what do you enjoy most about your role? 

One of the things I enjoy most about the job is the variety. Every day is different, and I travel around South and North Wales working in different hotels.

You get your job through on the phone in the morning, and you don’t always know exactly what you’re going to be dealing with. The work can range from plumbing and electrical jobs to plastering, painting and decorating.

What makes you want to keep working at 76? 

I took this job at 62 and didn’t really know how long I’d be doing it for. But I’ve enjoyed it for the past 14 years, and I’m still enjoying it now, so I’ll carry on for as long as I can.

I don’t feel my age. I don’t feel any different to how I felt at 50, so as long as I’m enjoying myself and I’m happy doing the job, I’ll keep going.

What would you say to people who are considering working beyond traditional retirement age?

I think you need to have something that gets you up in the morning and keeps you occupied. Most of my friends are retired, but some are still working. Don’t let age stop you, carry on for as long as you’re enjoying it and retire when you feel the time is right. At 76, I still haven’t made any plans for retirement. I think I’ll know myself when the time comes.

Travelodge is an inclusive employer where everybody can earn more, learn more and belong. I really feel that working alongside the team here and it’s a nice reminder that age isn’t everything.