Stagecoach bus driver Karen Falvey retires after 24 years

Karen Falvey, from Aldershot, completed 24 years on the road with Stagecoach South, becoming a familiar and well-loved face to passengers and colleagues alike.

She began her career in 2002 after being made redundant from a warehouse job, deciding to try bus driving after hearing positive remarks from drivers at a pub where she worked.

Karen Falvey has retired after 24 years as a bus driver in Hampshire. (Image: Stagecoach South)

Karen said: "I thought it sounded like a good job, so I gave it a go. I started learning the routes and just loved it."

Her friendly nature made her popular with regular passengers, many of whom she came to know personally through daily conversations.

Karen said: "I like a chat, you get to know people and see the same faces each week. That’s what makes the job special. I’ll really miss that."

Beyond her driving duties, she was a champion for improvements in the workplace, especially for women. She also served as a health and safety representative.

Her work also led to a lasting personal connection. Karen met her partner of 24 years, Terry Field, at Stagecoach, where he mentored her during her early days on the job.

Karen met her partner, Terry Field, who mentored her when she first joined, and they have now been together for 24 years. (Image: Stagecoach South)

When asked about her career highlights, she recalled some memorable events.

She said: "The Olympics and the Farnborough Airshow were definitely stand-out moments.

"The Olympics was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, transporting teams, meeting people from all over the place and even staying on a cruise ship on the Thames."

Terry joked that meeting him must have been another highlight.

Karen said: "We met when he was mentoring me and things went from there."

Marc Reddy, managing director of Stagecoach South, said: "Karen has made a huge contribution over the past 24 years. She’s been a fantastic ambassador for Aldershot, known for her warmth, professionalism and dedication to both customers and colleagues.

"We thank her for everything she’s done and wish her a very happy retirement."

Colleague Lorraine Stainton described Karen as a joy to work with.

Lorraine said: "Karen is a very bubbly, happy person who has been a joy to work with. She was always a good listening ear and great with customers. She will be missed by many."

As she looks ahead to retirement, Karen is ready for a new chapter.

She said: “I won’t miss the early starts. I’m just looking forward to going on as many holidays as we can and spending more time with family.”