Bus driver marks a milestone behind the wheel as Portsmouth celebrates 100 Years

As Portsmouth marks its centenary, one local bus driver is celebrating a milestone of his own, 45 years of dedicated service keeping the city and its communities moving.

Now aged 68, Grahame Povey has spent more than four decades behind the wheel, having first joined the industry in the early 1980s when the company was still known as Southdown and part of the National Bus Company.

His journey into the role began entirely by chance. “I was walking through Havant bus station when someone asked if I was looking for a job,” he recalls. “I said yes, and that was it. I started the following week as a cleaner, and not long after that I was in the driving school.”

From the days of conductor operated buses and traditional uniforms including ties, polished black shoes and conductor style hats to today’s modern, accessible and environmentally friendly fleet, Grahame has witnessed remarkable change across the industry.

“When I first started, we still had conductors, and everything was very different,” he says. “Now, everything is much quicker and more responsive. If there’s an issue, we can send out replacements and keep things moving.”

Over the years, he has driven everything from manual, gear stick buses requiring precise double clutch techniques to today’s fully automatic vehicles. “You used to have to wind the destination displays by hand at the front and back of the bus. Now you just press a button. The changes have been incredible.”

One of the standout moments of his career came during the London 2012 Olympic Games, where he spent five weeks transporting athletes across the capital.

“It was an amazing experience. I even got to hold a gold medal from Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds. It was much bigger and heavier than I expected,” he says. “There was such a great atmosphere. Even handing out chocolate bars to athletes became a moment to remember.”

Closer to home, Grahame has built lasting connections with passengers across Portsmouth and the surrounding areas.

“Years ago, you would see the same people every day and if someone was not there, you would notice,” he says. “That is still what I love most about the job. Meeting people and having those conversations.”

Born locally and having spent most of his life in the area, Grahame has seen not only changes in buses, but also improvements in infrastructure, including dedicated bus lanes designed to reduce congestion and improve reliability.

“Buses today are much more accessible, especially for wheelchair users and families with buggies. It is a big step forward.”

Throughout his career, it is the sense of community that has stood out most. “The depot is like a family. Everyone looks out for each other,” he says.

That support proved invaluable during difficult personal times, when colleagues and management showed understanding and gave him the space he needed. “You do not always know what someone else is going through, but the support I had meant everything.”

Despite planning to retire two years ago, Grahame admits he simply could not step away.

“I still enjoy it too much,” he says. “The people and the conversations are what keep me going.”

His dedication has not gone unnoticed. From heartfelt passenger compliments including a recent gift of red roses to recognition from management, his contribution continues to be celebrated.

Colin Ashcroft, Operations Manager of Stagecoach’s Portsmouth depot, said: “Graham’s dedication over 45 years is truly exceptional. He represents the very best of our team, with a genuine passion for people and the community he serves. As Portsmouth celebrates its centenary, it’s fitting to recognise someone who has spent so many years helping keep the city moving.”

As Portsmouth reflects on 100 years of history and progress, Grahame’s story highlights the vital role bus drivers play in connecting communities every day.

“To still be doing a job I love as Portsmouth celebrates 100 years that means a lot,” he says.