Singing Bus Driver in running for top award

A bus driver who has a 52-page folder of compliments from customers across Eastbourne and Bexhill is in the running for a top award.

Iain Strachan, known as Eastbourne's 'Singing Bus Driver' is shortlisted for Top National Bus Driver at the UK Bus Awards 2026.

Strachan, who joined Stagecoach in 2018, has also received a further 16 commendations submitted through the company's official customer service channels.

The bus driver believes his job is not "just about getting people from A to B" but about connecting with people.

He said: "I absolutely love what I do... If I can make someone smile, have a chat or brighten their day with a song, then that makes my day too."

Strachan admitted he sings "regularly" to customers, with 'Is This the Way to Amarillo' a real favourite.

Children who get the bus also affectionately refer to him as Daddy Pig from Peppa Pig, with the bus driver joking that he has the "same physique".

He added that children know his bus as "the happy bus", something which makes him very happy.

Before becoming a bus driver, Strachan ran catering businesses and worked in Michelin-starred hotels.

He now brings this customer service experience to his role as a bus driver.

Strachan added: "I'm genuinely touched by all the lovely comments I've received from passengers over the years, and to now be shortlisted for a UK Bus Award is a real honour."

Joel Mitchell, managing director at Stagecoach South East, said anyone who knows the driver will "understand exactly why" he is in the running for this award.

He said: "Iain has an incredible ability to make people feel welcome. He genuinely cares about his passengers and can turn an ordinary journey into something that brightens someone's day."

The UK Bus Awards 2026 will take place on 24 November.

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