Welcome to Yorkshire
News • August 18th, 2026
|A young boy from Barnsley has had an unforgettable experience after getting the chance to sit behind the wheel of a real bus, just like his mum. George, a keen bus enthusiast, was thrilled when he was invited to take the driver’s seat during a special trip around Elsecar with his mother, Olivia Wyatt, who is a bus driver for Stagecoach at their Barnsley depot.
George’s Big Moment
George's adventure came about when one of the bus drivers noticed his excitement for buses and offered him the opportunity to sit behind the wheel. The bus was specially isolated to ensure safety, allowing George to experience what it's like to be in control of a real bus.
His mum, Olivia, who has been recognised for her safe driving with a certificate last year, shared her joy about this experience:
“George is fascinated by buses, so this was a wonderful treat for him. He absolutely loved it, and I know that he will be telling his friends all about it!”
A Bright Future for the Bus Industry
John Young, the Commercial Director of Stagecoach Yorkshire, also commented on the special moment:
“It is lovely that we were able to give George this opportunity to get behind the wheel and ‘drive’ a real bus. At Stagecoach, we always say that we ‘plan for the future’ and young people, like George, could certainly be the future of the bus industry.”
Free Travel for Kids This August
Additionally, as part of the government’s Great British Summer Savings Scheme, children aged between five and 15 can travel for free on Stagecoach buses throughout August, with only a few special services excluded. This initiative aims to encourage families to explore their local areas without the worry of transport costs. Children under five can travel for free all year round, making bus travel accessible for even younger children.
