After 50 years on the road, lorry driver Harry Dent gets a surprise farewell - photo credits @ DP Ports

Tribute lorry surprises HGV driver after 50 years behind the wheel

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After 50 years of driving lorries in and out of Teesside, Harry Dent did not expect anything out of the ordinary at work. Instead, the week marking his work anniversary came with an unexpected tribute: a specially branded lorry and a celebratory drive around the port where he has spent half a century behind the wheel.

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PD Ports organised the surprise to mark 50 years since Dent first joined the company as an HGV driver. Contrary to initial impressions, the tribute was not linked to retirement. PD Ports confirmed that Dent is still working for the company and remains active in his role at the age of 73.

The commemorative lorry was unveiled during the anniversary week and driven around the Teesport estate as part of the celebration. Family members, colleagues and senior representatives of PD Ports attended the event, which also included an escort by the port’s harbour police.

The event was attended by members of Dent’s family, colleagues and senior representatives of PD Ports

The event was attended by members of Dent’s family, colleagues and senior representatives of PD Ports – Photo credits @ PD Ports

According to PD Ports, Dent began his career in the mid-1970s and has witnessed major changes in both haulage and port logistics over the decades, including developments in vehicle technology, safety standards and cargo handling practices.

An escort by the port’s harbour police accompanied the special drive

An escort by the port’s harbour police accompanied the special drive – photo credits @ PD Ports

The company said the tribute was intended as a gesture of appreciation for long-term commitment and professionalism, underlining the continued importance of experienced drivers in port-based supply chains.

PD Ports operates several major ports and logistics hubs across the UK. Teesport is one of the country’s largest deep-sea ports and a key node for road freight movements in northern England.

After 50 years on the road, lorry driver Harry Dent gets a surprise farewell - photo credits @ DP Ports

Tribute lorry surprises Harry Dent HGV driver after 50 years behind the wheel – photo credits @ DP Ports

We wish Harry many more safe miles ahead.

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