Kenny Beckers, 76, from Swansea, is believed to be the UK’s longest serving bus driver. With a career spanning over five decades, Beckers has dedicated his life to the roads, transporting approximately seven million passengers and covering around 800,000 miles.
Mr Beckers began his bus career at the age of 18 as a bus conductor. Three years later, he transitioned to the role of a bus driver, a position he has held ever since. His journey started in 1969, and over the years, he has worked for five different companies, all while remaining based in Swansea.
Reflecting on his career, Beckers shared his experiences and the significant changes he has witnessed in the bus industry. “It was great being a driver in 1969,” he recalled. “We had so many routes and carried so many passengers, including lots from all the factories, the collieries, and British Steel at Port Talbot. But, of course, all that declined in the 1980s.”
One of the most notable changes, according to Beckers, has been the reduction in commuters. “The loss of commuters has been the biggest change,” he said. “The reduction in office workers and shop workers, and more people buying cars, means we’ve seen a decline in bus travel.”
Despite these challenges, Beckers remains optimistic about the future of bus services and called for the whole nation to look after its bus drivers. He highlighted the improvements made for disabled passengers, noting, “We now have buses that are lower, pavements that are higher, and ramps. It’s great to see services increasing again in Swansea. The key to getting people back on the bus is by putting on more services.”
Beckers also reminisced about the days when double-decker buses allowed smoking on the top deck. “Upstairs was like a mist,” he laughed. “All the factory girls and everybody else was up there smoking, it was unbelievable.”
At 76, Beckers is in semi-retirement, part time working two days a week. However, he has no plans to stop driving entirely. “Once my body feels like enough is enough, then I’ll give up,” he said. “But I don’t like putting a time on things. So long as I feel good and my health’s good, then I’ll keep going.”
His employer, First Bus, praised his dedication and contribution to the company and the community. With no maximum age limit for bus drivers in the UK, Beckers is free to continue his passion for driving as long as he wishes.
Kenny Beckers’ story is a testament to his love for his job and his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Swansea. His experiences highlight the evolution of the bus industry and the enduring importance of public transportation.
The Workers Union Says…
“As bus services in Swansea continue to grow, the legacy of dedicated drivers like Kenny Beckers serves as an inspiration. His story underscores the vital role that bus drivers play in our communities, ensuring that public transport remains a reliable and essential service.”
