Stagecoach Portsmouth Driver Nominated for National Transport Award

Stagecoach South is delighted to announce that Portsmouth driver Thomas Raistrick has been shortlisted for the Community & Stakeholder Management Award at the Leadership in Passenger Transport Awards 2026.

Thomas has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to community engagement through the highly successful Santa Bus and Halloween Bus fundraisers in Portsmouth and contributing to the wider Stagecoach South network. These popular events have brought communities together, supported local charities, and helped showcase the important role buses play beyond everyday transport.

The festive Santa Bus programme helped contribute towards more than £6,500 raised across the wider Stagecoach South network for charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Save the Children, and local foodbanks and children's charities. Meanwhile, Portsmouth's Halloween Bus supported local children's charity Alfie's Arc while creating a fun and inclusive experience for families and passengers.

Reacting to his nomination, Thomas said: "I was surprised really, I wasn't expecting to get anywhere. been a driver for Stagecoach for three and a half years and I'm still shocked. I do what I do because I love it, and if I can make people smile, then I've done my job."

Marc Reddy, managing director of Stagecoach South, said: "Thomas exemplifies the very best of our values. His creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment to engaging with the community have had a genuine impact across Portsmouth. Initiatives like the Santa Bus and Halloween Bus show how public transport can play a vital role in bringing people together and supporting local causes."

Everyone at Stagecoach South congratulates Thomas on this well-deserved recognition and wishes him the very best at the Leadership in Passenger Transport Awards 2026.