For more than a century they have helped to keep buses on the road and now three mechanics from Norwich are celebrating after they clocked up 120 years' service between them.

Paul Jackson, a mechanic based at First Eastern Counties' Vulcan Road depot, has been with the firm for 45 years.

The 61 year old, who now works as a bus inspector, started work in Cremorne Lane, Thorpe, as an apprentice engineer.

Mr Jackson, who lives in Wroxham Road, Sprowston with his wife, Chrissie, said: 'I have seen a lot of changes in my time – privatisation, electric bus trials and bendy buses.

'I used to have a habit of pulling things apart and working out how to get them back together again. I always want to know how things work. I enjoy my job, no two days are ever the same.'

And his son Stuart, a fitter at the firm's Vulcan Road depot, is following in his footsteps and climbing the career ladder.

Roger Harvey, an electrician based at Roundtree Way, is celebrating 40 years' service.

The 59 year old, who lives in Thorpe, was initially part of a five-strong team who were responsible for a fleet of 700 buses.

Mr Harvey, who has two children and two grandchildren, said: 'I joined when I was 19 years old and I still love my job because it's always varied; you never know what you're going to do next. I love fault finding and working on problems.'

Graham Bird, a mechanic based at Roundtree Way, joined the firm when he was 16, following in the footsteps of his father, Brian.

The 51 year old, who lives in Dussindale, said: 'To work for the same firm for 35 years is a massive achievement. I have seen a lot of changes over the years but still enjoy my job today.'

Hugo Forster, general manager of First Eastern Counties, said: 'It's the dedication and hard work of our staff which make First Eastern Counties the thriving company it is today. We are very grateful to Paul, Roger and Graham for their long service.'

? Can you beat 45 years of service to a Norwich firm? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk