Four ‘inspiring’ employees from Stagecoach West Scotland were commended for in the ‘frontline employee of the year’ category at the Scottish Transport Awards. The Frontline Employee award acknowledges people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their jobs and shown a commitment to their role. Three bus drivers and an inspector based at Stagecoach’s Kilmarnock depot all received a commendation from the judges.
Bus drivers Jack Austin, Hugh McLelland and Lorna Jones were commended for their exceptional heroism and quick thinking during a traumatic incident outside Kilmarnock bus station in October 2022 when a teenager was seriously injured. Jack, Hugh and Lorna immediately delivered first aid and supported the young person until the ambulance arrived. Jack, along with colleagues, worked quickly to reroute bus services out of the station and communicate with customers.
Brian Stewart, an inspector, was commended for his exceptional commitment and dedication to his role, both on and off the job. During two major events that Stagecoach was a transport provider for (COP26 in Glasgow 2021 and the Commonwealth Games in 2022), Brian was part of the driving team responsible for transporting hundreds of people, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of passengers to their destinations. Brian was praised for his positive attitude, professionalism, and willingness to help. Beyond the workplace, Brian has been involved in sponsoring Ukrainian refugees to live with him and his family, providing them with a warm, safe, and welcoming environment.
Commenting on the nominations, Fiona Doherty, Managing Director at Stagecoach West Scotland said: “Congratulations to Jack, Hugh, Lorna and Brian who all thoroughly deserve this commendation. We are very proud of the actions that Jack, Hugh and Lorna took outside Kilmarnock bus station that day and it is right that their bravery and dedication to the safety of others was recognised by the judges.”
