A supremely safe bus driver in Swindon has been rewarded for more than a quarter century of accident-free driving.

Robert Parsloe has not had an incident in 26 years of driving his Stagecoach bus around the town.

And along with three of his colleagues from Gloucestershire he was recently given an award for more than a century of problem-free journeys.

Robert said: “Passenger safety and the safety of others on the road is always at the forefront of your mind when you are driving. It’s at the heart of what we do as bus drivers. But when someone tells you it’s been more than a quarter of a century accident-free it makes you think a bit.

Robert added: "We’ve seen all sorts of changes during that time – more traffic and ever-changing road systems – but that is just part of the job and we are lucky enough to work for a company that is investing all the time in the buses we use and that helps make our jobs easier.

“After 26 years I still enjoy the passengers and what I do – and to be recognised for doing what you do for a living is humbling.”

Robert's colleagues are Gloucester driver Mike Foran, who has been accident free for 40 years; Stroud driver Stuart Waters 21 years on the buses without a collision and Cheltenham driver Jenny Plumley who has not had an accident for 14 years.

All four have now been recognised by ROSCO, the organisation which promotes safe driving excellence, with a range of badges and financial prizes.

Stagecoach West’s Operations Director Rachel Geliamassi said: “As a company we are very proud of the safe driving records achieved by Robert, Mike, Stuart and Jenny.

“They are tremendous ambassadors for Stagecoach West where the safety and comfort of our customers, day in and day out, has always been our number one priority.”

Mr Foran, who served in the army before becoming a bus driver, said the secret of safe driving was a keen awareness of other road users and ensuring you follow the correct procedures.

He would thoroughly recommend a career as a bus driver and loves meeting customers.

“I enjoy the interaction with our passengers, I think if you are friendly to them then they will be friendly to you. That is important,” he said.

Mr Waters, said as a driver it was vital to constantly plan ahead, be observant, use your mirrors and ensure you are aware of your surroundings at all times.

“It's also important to have be pleasant when dealing with customers,”