Isle Of Wight’s Leanne Howard Named Among Top Bus Drivers On South Coast

Leanne Howard from Southern Vectis is celebrating this week, after being named among the top drivers along the south coast.

The local bus driver competed against colleagues from Southern Vectis and those from sister operators - including the cream of the crop from Southampton’s Bluestar, Salisbury Reds, Swindon’s Bus Company, and Morebus in Bournemouth and Poole.

Placing Leanne third, judges based their decision on a range of criteria - including drivers’ professionalism at work and stand out skills during manoeuvres, at a special event in Salisbury. For her third placing, she received £250. 

“We are justifiably proud of our drivers across all our operators, so the top three of this annual award have to be very special,” said operations director, David Lee Kong.

“I’m delighted for Leanne. To be placed higher than all but two of our drivers is an amazing achievement.”

With more than five years’ experience in the industry, Leanne is known for her excellent customer service, bubbly personality and infectious smile.

She can often be found throughout the island, driving the popular Island Breezer and Coaster services. 

Leanne, who is based in Newport, will now represent Southern Vectis and the family of south coast sister companies at the UK Bus Driver of the year final in Blackpool this September.

Reflecting on her achievement, Leanne said:

“I am still in awe of making it to the final of Bus Driver of the Year. And it was great to be supported by my mum, who is in the process of training to be a bus driver with Southern Vectis!"