On the buses!

A wheely good idea

Jimmy and Michael started their bus route challenge seven years ago. The idea came a few years before from one of Jimmy’s former carers, John, who printed off all of London’s bus routes at the time and asked the two friends to tick a route every time they travelled on a bus. This was to encourage Jimmy and Michael, who both have special needs, to keep active. Since 2014, Jimmy and Michael have completed a remarkable 374 routes!

Jimmy and Michael love travelling on London buses as they get to see many different areas of the Capital and take in the scenery from the comfort of the moquette-covered seats. It’s also a great way to exercise, as just walking to the bus stop helps them get their step count up every day!

Next stop… Acton Depot!

We loved hearing about Jimmy’s and Michael’s bus challenge so, in August 2021, we invited them to visit our Museum Depot in Acton. They particularly enjoyed walking through our bus shed, of course, and seeing our collection of heritage buses up close. They were surprised to spot a green one among the iconic red models! They even got a chance to wear an old bus conductor’s hat and speak to the volunteers and staff who take care of our vehicles, who are just as passionate about buses as they are. Jimmy and Michael loved seeing familiar numbers on the front of the buses and were able to recognise many of the old routes.

There are still many journeys to tick off the list, but since we last saw them at our Depot, Jimmy and Michael have completed another three routes. Congratulations to both on their achievements so far. We look forward to hearing more about their bus adventures!