Still Choosing To Work At 81: Is This The North East's Oldest Employee?

By Jenny Wotherspoon Location: Sunderland
play video

Charles West - Possibly the oldest call centre worker in Tyne and Wear

Charles West brings more than six decades of experience to his job at the 2Touch call centre in Sunderland.

Mr West, who lives in Washington, began his working life at the age of 19 and is still earning at 81.

After trying out retirement for less than a month, he decided to start a new career in customer service to supplement his pension, which he says 'doesn't go very far'.

He said: "I've always worked and if I don't work I don't know what to do with myself. I can't just sit around the house all day."

2Touch Recruitment Director Ann Lazenby says Charles is an asset to their workforce, and that elderly workers have a lot to offer.

She said: "They have maturity, commitment, they come to work to get a job done. When Charles came to interview he just blew us away."

Age UK Director General Michelle Mitchell added: "Everybody who wants to work should have the option to do so, regardless of their age.

"Too few employers are willing to look beyond the stereotypes and many older people find opportunities are very limited."

Though Charles is the oldest worker at 2Touch, the company do employ a number of people over the age of 50.

He said: "There isn't an age barrier here. If you can prove you can do the work then you're welcome."

Mr West is a part-time employee and spends his spare time watching cricket and supporting both Newcastle and Sunderland football teams.

When asked if he might be the oldest worker in Tyne and Wear, he said: "If there's anybody older than I am, come forward. I'll take them on."

Do you know an older worker than Charles in Tyne and Wear? Email tyneandwear@bskyb.com or tweet @skytyneandwear 

Sky Go Additional Benefits

Related stories

What age is the oldest employee at your workplace?

More from News

Most popular