Two Swindon bus drivers have been named as the town’s brilliant bus drivers following nominations from passengers through September.

Sam Victory – a driver for Stagecoach, and Courtney Sharp – a driver for Swindon’s Bus Company, have been selected from the high volume of nominations that came in.  The campaign was launched by local Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) partners, including Swindon’s Bus Company and Stagecoach West, to celebrate the drivers who go the extra mile every day.

There were dozens of positive comments for nearly 100 drivers, making it a hard choice for the judges at the two bus companies.  The passenger who nominated Courtney praised her as “A wonderful driver, extremely helpful and friendly.  I felt very secure asking directions and bus trip advice as a South African.  Incredible how well she navigates the narrow roads as well.  I am always shy to ask if I am on right bus or when I should get off, driver explained it all clearly and I can’t wait to use the bus again.”

Courtney, aged 26 from Swindon has been a bus driver with Swindon’s Bus Company for 4 years.  She said: “I love the fact that each day is different and in my role as a bus driver, I get to help so many people whether that’s with directions, advising them of the right ticket to buy, or just being friendly, it’s all part of my working day.

Sam received two nominations, one complimenting him for being a “Very safe driver, excellent customer service.”  The other nomination said: “Sam always goes above and beyond whenever I’m getting on or off the bus. Making sure I am fully sat before driving off and having lovely greetings each morning.”

The campaign was part of National ‘Catch the Bus Month’ which seeks to challenge perceptions and inspire more people to get on board.  Both drivers won a £100 food voucher to help provide their refreshments whilst out and about on the buses.

In addition, two lucky nominators won a month’s free bus travel on Swindon’s bus network.

Councillor Nick Gardiner, cabinet member for Highways and transport, said: Bus drivers are often the public face of our local transport network, and play a vital role in helping people travel confidently and independently. This campaign was a fantastic way to recognise the everyday acts of kindness and professionalism that makes a real difference to passengers, while celebrating the positive impact buses have on our communities.

“We know there are many drivers across Swindon who go above and beyond for their passengers every day, and we have enjoyed hearing the stories that make them stand out.”

Dave Hall, Swindon’s Bus Company operations manager, added: “It was inspiring to receive so much positive feedback about our drivers who help our customers across Swindon.  I would like to thank everyone who took part in this event to support the campaign, I know it was a huge lift to our team her and much appreciated.”

Martin Gibbon, managing director of Stagecoach West said: ““We’re delighted that Sam has been recognised as one of Swindon’s Brilliant Bus Drivers. The nominations he received from customers highlight the care, professionalism and excellent customer service he shows every day, and we’re incredibly proud to see his dedication acknowledged in this way.

“Our drivers are at the heart of the communities we serve, helping people travel with confidence and supporting customers throughout their journeys. Sam’s recognition is a fantastic example of the difference our drivers make every day, and we’d like to congratulate him on this well-deserved award.”

“We’d also like to thank all the customers who took the time to nominate drivers and share their positive experiences, helping to shine a light on the outstanding work taking place across Swindon’s bus network.”