King’s Cross: Plaque unveiled for Britain’s first black train driver

A plaque has been unveiled commemorating Britain’s first black train driver.

Jamaican-born Wilston Samuel Jackson began maintaining trains shortly after moving to London in 1952, and became a driver 10 years later.

He had a long and successful career on the railway, including driving the famous Flying Scotsman locomotive.

At the unveiling at King’s Cross station, Mr Jackson’s daughter said he “dedicated his life to the railway”.

“He was never late or missed a day, and he was so proud of his work, despite the many challenges he faced,” Polly Jackson said.

“Today was a fitting tribute to his life and career.” More