Eastbourne’s ‘Singing Bus Driver’ shortlisted for top national award

Stagecoach South East driver Iain Strachan recognised for bringing smiles, songs and outstanding service to his passengers

A Stagecoach South East bus driver who has become known for bringing a smile, and the occasional song, to his passengers’ journeys has been shortlisted for one of the industry’s top national awards.

Iain Strachan, affectionately known as Eastbourne’s “Singing Bus Driver”, is a finalist for Top National Bus Driver – The Chris Moyes Memorial Award at the UK Bus Awards 2026.

Iain joined Stagecoach South East in 2018 and has since built a remarkable reputation among passengers across Eastbourne and Bexhill for his warmth, humour and commitment to making every journey a positive experience.

Whether it’s offering a friendly welcome, helping someone with their journey, sharing a joke or breaking into song, Iain has become a familiar and much-loved face for customers.

And passengers haven’t been shy about sharing their appreciation.

Iain has amassed an incredible 52-page folder of customer compliments, gathered from social media, emails and feedback shared with managers, alongside a further 16 commendations submitted through Stagecoach’s official customer service channels.

One passenger described how Iain “had the whole bus smiling”, while another has affectionately dubbed his vehicle “the happy bus” because of the atmosphere he creates on board.

Joel Mitchell, Managing Director at Stagecoach South East, said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to see Iain shortlisted for Top National Bus Driver, and anyone who has travelled with him will understand exactly why.

“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 amount of positive feedback we receive says it all. He’s a fantastic ambassador for Stagecoach South East, and we’re incredibly proud to have him as part of our team.”

Before becoming a bus driver, Iain built up extensive customer service experience running catering businesses and working in Michelin-starred hotels, experience he now brings to his role behind the wheel.

His commitment to others also extends beyond his day job, with Iain volunteering to support causes and community events including blood runner services and Pride.

Iain said: “I absolutely love what I do. For me, driving a bus isn’t just about getting people from A to B – it’s about the people you meet along the way. If I can make someone smile, have a chat or brighten their day with a song, then that makes my day too.

“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. I certainly didn’t expect it! I’m very grateful to everyone who has taken the time to say something kind and to all the passengers who make every day on the road enjoyable.”

Iain will now go forward to the UK Bus Awards 2026, where he will be in the running for the Chris Moyes Memorial Award for Top National Bus Driver.