Colleagues at Stagecoach South’s Chichester depot have paid tribute to one of the South’s longest-serving bus drivers, Royston Shaw, who has died aged 87.
Mr Shaw spent almost seven decades behind the wheel, including more than 30 years with Stagecoach.
He began his career driving buses in London before joining Stagecoach in 1994, where he became a well-known and much-loved member of the Chichester team.
To mark his life and career, colleagues arranged for a Stagecoach bus to display the words “In memory of Royston Shaw” across the front, alongside the destination display “Royston Shaw – 1938–2026”.
His wife Jan joined staff at the depot to see the tribute.
Marc Reddy, Managing Director of Stagecoach South, said: “Royston was a truly remarkable man and someone I will always remember with enormous affection. He was an exceptional driver, but more importantly, he was a much-loved colleague who brought warmth, humour and a real passion for the job to the depot every day.
“I remember him telling me that he wasn’t old enough to retire, and that perfectly captured Royston’s character. He simply loved driving buses, meeting people and being part of the team.
“Seeing his colleagues come together to create this tribute, and having Jan there to share it with them, was incredibly moving. It is a fitting way to remember someone who gave so much of his life to our industry. Royston was a legend, and he will be greatly missed.”
Mr Shaw was also recognised for his driving record.
In 2024, at the age of 85, he received a Fleet Elite award through Stagecoach’s GreenRoad safety programme, which recognised his driving performance.
He later appeared on BBC South, which highlighted that he was still working full-time at the age of 86.
Asked previously what kept him driving for so long, Mr Shaw said: “I don’t recognise my age. It’s just a number. I just enjoy life.”
When asked when he planned to retire, he replied: “Till I’m old enough to retire.”
Stagecoach said his death had been deeply felt by his family, friends, customers and colleagues, with the Chichester team arranging the bus tribute to reflect the respect and affection they had for him.
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