A BUS fan paying tribute to key workers got the chance to dress up as a driver thanks to a Swindon firm.

Swindon Bus Company welcomed Sam Pierce, 29, who has Down’s syndrome, as a member of its team – complete with driver’s uniform – at a bus stop in Fleming Way.

Operator Lucy Humphrey said: “Sam is a fan of Swindon’s Bus Company and he’s been visiting other key workers too.

“He’s been on a mission to dress in the uniform of lots of different types of essential workers, from police officers to supermarket workers, and we were only too pleased to oblige when he asked to meet us.

“Of course, we are in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic, so we had to be careful about social distancing and I had to wear a face covering. But I hope Sam enjoyed having his photo taken with one of our buses, and I wish him luck with the rest of his mission.”

Sam's mum Lesley Russell Pierce added: “He started dressing up as a key workers to thank all those helping us through lockdown.

“Sam has always loved transport vehicles and has really missed his bus journeys since the pandemic so this was an amazing afternoon for him.

“Sam was thrilled to wear the uniform.”

Swindon’s Bus Company has been transporting key workers across the region since the beginning of the pandemic.

“These are challenging times and, on behalf of us all, I would like to thank my colleagues - who themselves are keyworker’s - for their incredible resilience and dedication,” Lucy added.

“Without their efforts, many of those who carry out vital roles within our local community would be unable to travel.”