04/09/2026
Q&A with Gordon Springate — 90 Years Young
A Life in Transport, Training & People
Gordon, 90 years is quite a milestone! How does it feel to reach this birthday?
"I FEEL BETTER THAN I DID 30 YEARS AGO!! My body has forgotten how old I am!"
Where did your love of transport first begin? Was there a particular vehicle, job or person that sparked your interest?
"I started life as a mechanic – I then went driving for RTITB – they were pulling out and asked me to take over the transport training – Gordon Springate was born!!"
Over the years, you must have trained a huge number of drivers. Is there a particular candidate or success story that has stayed with you?
"I trained 4 of the grooms from Buckingham Palace that take care of the royal horses!"
For someone preparing to take their HGV/lorry driving test today, what is your number-one piece of advice?
"We teach you to drive not take you for a ride!"
What are the biggest mistakes you see candidates make?
"Lack of concentration!!! PLAN AHEAD!"
What would you say to someone who has failed their test and feels like giving up?
"If you know why you’ve failed, you can rectify it – keep going!"
What are you most grateful for when you look back over your 90 years
"Strong faith! I’m a very strong person"
What is the funniest thing that's happened during your years as a trainer?
"I asked candidates to wait by the lorry for me – they misheard and drove off without me in the lorry!! I had to chase after them!!"
If you could take one lorry from any era for one final drive, what would it
"An AEC Mandator!!"
