Plaque celebrates trailblazing woman driver
Women in Bus and Coach in partnership with Stagecoach have unveiled a commemorative plaque to commemorate a trailblazing woman driver.
The plaque is displayed at Winchester Bus Station and honours Mary Curry, one of the first two women to qualify as a professional bus driver for Hants & Dorset in 1973.
The unveiling event paid tribute to Mary’s contribution to breaking gender barriers in the industry and her lasting impact on generations of women drivers. Mary herself was in attendance, along with representatives from Stagecoach, Women in Bus and Coach and key local dignitaries. It is the first plaque as part of a new national initiative by Women in Bus and Coach to recognise trailblazing women across all roles in the bus, coach and community transport industry.
“By recognising her, we hope to continue inspiring more women to consider careers in bus and coach driving” – Marc Reddy, Managing Director for Stagecoach South
Marc Reddy, Managing Director for Stagecoach South, said: “Mary Curry’s story is one of perseverance, courage and breaking boundaries. By recognising her, we hope to continue inspiring more women to consider careers in bus and coach driving. Her legacy lives on in every woman who has taken the driver’s seat and continues to challenge outdated norms in the industry.”
Stagecoach has been working closely with Women in Bus and Coach to ensure that women have equal opportunities in the sector and are celebrated for their contributions.
“Mary Curry is a true pioneer, and we are honoured to have celebrated her achievement at Winchester Bus Station” – Louise Cheeseman, Women in Bus and Coach chair
Louise Cheeseman, Women in Bus and Coach chair, said: “Mary Curry is a true pioneer, and we are honoured to have celebrated her achievement at Winchester Bus Station, where she started her journey. This plaque is a testament to her trailblazing spirit and the progress we continue to make in promoting equality and inclusion in the workplace and we look forward to unveiling many more across the country in the months to come.”