A YOUNG National Express Coventry trainee has become a driving sensation after passing his bus driving test at the age of 18 with no minor faults.
Luke Brown took to the wheel after being inspired by his dad Stuart, who is also a bus driver at the same bus company. He has been based at the Coventry garage for more than 20 years.
After completing his driver training, Luke passed his Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence for the first time and with no minors.
He is now a qualified bus driver for National Express Coventry.
Luke said: “It feels great to have passed with no minors.
“I put a lot of time and effort into practising for the test so it’s very satisfying to know my hard work has paid off.
“Having a supportive team around me has helped a lot.
During my training, no question was too silly and my instructor was calm and informative so I didn’t feel pressured at all, which I believe has really spurred on my development.”
Darren Dunbar, National Express Coventry’s driver training officer, added: “To pass a PCV licence at 18 years of age and with zero minors is a major achievement.
“Each year we have hundreds of drivers start training, out of these, only about two or three pass their test without fault.
“We were not surprised by Luke’s result – he puts 100 per cent into everything he does and that definitely shows in his driving.
“I’m really pleased for him, he’s a lovely guy and a great asset to the garage.”
Luke said he was looking forward to spending more time on the road, helping more people get around and working alongside his dad.
“Although, now there is a bit of competition between me and dad for who’s the better driver.”
Exciting times for city’s buses
National Express Coventry is actively recruiting more bus drivers.
The recruitment drive comes as Coventry is set become an All Electric Bus City by 2025.
A full-time driver in Coventry can earn £28,500 – even more with overtime.
This is on top of improved flexibility with part-time work and shorter week options. Full training is also provided.
Click here for the National Express careers page.
