Hartlepool driver's 35 years of dedication '˜on the buses'

David Littlewood, 63, has achieved the milestone after becoming a bus driver for Hartlepool Corporation, on January 2, 1984, and Stagecoach North East when it took over services.

David’s dedication even saw him return to work after having triple bypass late last year.

And now David, who was born, lived and has worked in the Brenda Road area all his life, has now been recognised by Stagecoach North East for his loyalty to the company in its annual long service awards,

David said: “I love meeting the public, getting out and about driving across the town. 
“Even though I do different routes, it’s quite a small area so you still meet the same people and see the same familiar faces.

“Buses have improved so much over the years too, with power steering, only one door now, and they are so much more comfortable.

“I used to drive an older-style bus which resides at the depot and when it was loaded full of people you would know about it.”

David’s father-in-law from the Hornsey family was also a bus driver at the Hartlepool depot, along with 16 close relations of his wife - making his role something of a tradition in his extended family.

A career highlight for David was taking part and playing a key role in the 2012 London Olympic Games as part of the Stagecoach support team who were transporting athletes around the city. David added: “I worked for eight weeks on the coaches. It was an amazing occasion and a once in a lifetime experience.”