Stagecoach is bidding to tackle ongoing problems with bus services in Merthyr Tydfil by holding a driver recruitment day.

On Sunday, 9 October, the company’s ‘try a bus’ event will allow people to have a go at driving a bus – even if they never have before.

Stagecoach will pay anyone who successfully applies for a job to train to achieve a recognised national qualification in Passenger Transport and their PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) licence, worth around £4,000.

The event is taking place at The College Merthyr Tydfil’s River Taff car park from 10am to 3pm (the car park will be closed to the public until 4pm).

“We’re holding a ‘try a bus’ day as part of our recruitment strategy to attract new drivers into the Stagecoach South Wales family,” said Carl Bruton, Operations Manager for Stagecoach Merthyr Tydfil depot.

“This will allow us to run all of our bus services across Merthyr Tydfil for our customers and help employ people in the local communities.

“We hope this gives people a chance to try driving a bus – they may have never driven a bus before – or may be a current driver looking for a new challenge. You don’t need a bus licence – just a car licence!”

County Borough Council Leader Cllr Geraint Thomas has been involved in a series of discussions to try to help solve the problem of cancelled bus services due to the driver shortage.

“Members of the Council’s Employability team, along with their partners from Jobcentre Plus, will be supporting Stagecoach with assistance on the day to help encourage individuals to learn more about this fantastic opportunity,” he added.

“Stagecoach have long had issues getting drivers, but are confident this recruitment day will be a success,” he added. “If it can ease the pressures on timetables while also offering employment to local people, that’s a win-win.”

Further details are available in the link below:

Try before you apply | Stagecoach (stagecoachbus.com)