Favourite bus is named after fan

JOHN LOVES ALL THINGS ARRIVA

BUS operator Arriva has dedicated a vehicle to a fan of the firm.

John Cooze, who is autistic, has a large picture collection of Arriva buses, but has a favourite from the local fleet.

John likes to visit bus depots in the summer. His love for “his bus’ started four years ago when he was invited to Arriva’s Wigston depot and given a tour of a bus before it was first put into service, including testing all the bells and going through the car wash.

Since then John has felt a connection to the bus.

Paul Hickinbottom, general manager at Arriva Midlands, said: “After hearing of John’s love for his bus, we knew we had to name the bus after him to thank him for all of his support.

“We are delighted John is such a big fan. We look forward to welcoming John on to his bus when it is safe to do so.

“We also can’t wait to invite John into the Thurmaston depot to celebrate for an exclusive behind-thescenes tour as soon as we can.”

Sam Freeman, who supports John at the National Autistic Society, said: “John has always been interested in buses.

“He’s a real bus enthusiast and he’s often said his dream is to see his name on a bus.

“John loves being around or travelling on buses and he hasn’t been able to do this in the same way in the past year.

“The disruption to his routine has been really tough for John, as it has been for the 700,000 autistic people in the UK, and their families, too.

“So, to have his dream realised is absolutely amazing.

“All of us at the National Autistic Society are delighted to see John so happy after such a challenging year.

“A big thank you to Arriva for making this happen.”