Question time with Dicky Dodd, Wolverhampton bus driver
Get to know the faces behind our business
Published: 4th May 2021
Our new behind the scenes blog series!
In our new blog series, get behind the scenes and discover more about us and the many faces behind our bus business!
In this blog post, we will be interviewing Dicky Dodd, a popular local radio presenter. Dicky currently works for us driving buses around Wolverhampton in the Black Country.
Dicky Dodd, Wolverhampton Bus Driver
Dicky's faves!
Favourite seat on a bus? The driver's seat
Double deck or single deck? Double deck every time!
Favourite feature on a bus? When driving it has to be the steering lock. I find it amazing how such a huge vehicle can be turned around literally on a "sixpence". One of the best routes where the tight turning circle of a bus is demonstrated is the Number 1 service in Tettenhall Wood, where you have to do a U-Turn on the roundabout on Yew Tree Lane.
What is your favourite colour on a bus? Grey - The Platinum livery is my fave!
Tell us about yourself
Dicky Dodd, bus driver, based at Park Lane Garage in Wolverhampton. I’ve only just started in service but I’m really enjoying it. I’m working part time but I have to say everyone I’ve been in contact with at the company, has been very helpful and made me feel very welcome.
How long have you been a bus driver?
I passed my test with NXWM back in 2009 and since then I’ve driven for the company, on many charity initiatives and a few private hires.
Have you always been a fan of buses?
Yes, ever since I was a young boy, I’ve always loved buses. Strange I know!
What made you choose to work for bus?
I’ve always loved buses from a young child. I enjoy driving and I’m a people person, so put all that together and I think it gives me something I enjoy. I also feel I can positively contribute to the National Express West Midlands team and customer experience.
What does bus travel mean to you?
As a passenger it’s the convenience and frequency that is important to me. As a driver it’s delivering a safe and reliable service, that our customers would recommend to their friends and family.
What is your favourite bus or route?
I love driving all of the buses but I have to admit driving a Platinum is very enjoyable. I like all of the routes I’ve learnt but if I had to single out one route, it would have to be the 15 to Merry Hill.
What does it mean to you being a bus driver in today's society?
For me it’s being that person that gets a person to their destination safely, along with a friendly smile and a thank you. I find that a simple smile can make someone's day and I find most customers respond in the same way.
What has it been like being a bus driver during a pandemic?
I’ve only just started driving in service but to me it’s been a help, allowing me to get used to the ticket machine especially! Not having too many people get on has given me time to find the different tickets on the screen.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
An ex-Wolverhampton driver called Vic Morris, who is sadly no longer with us. Vic was a friend of my Mom’s and we used to get on the 559 to go to my Nan’s and I always loved it when Vic was driving. I used to sit at the front of a Fleetline and watch him drive. Whenever he came round our house he used to share his stories of being a driver, which I loved because from a child I’ve always loved buses.
Keep your eyes peeled for more behind the scenes interviews coming very soon. Want to read more? Explore more posts from our Q&A blog series below.
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