ONE of the first female bus divers has been honoured with a plaque in Winchester.
Mary Curry was a trailblazer being one of the first two female drivers at Hants and Dorset company in 1973.
Women in Bus and Coach in partnership with Stagecoach have unveiled a commemorative plaque at Winchester Bus Station to honour her.
The event paid tribute to her breaking gender barriers in the industry and her lasting impact on generations of women drivers.
READ MORE HERE: Mary Curry remembers early days as a pioneering bus driver
The plaque unveiling, which 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, took place on Thursday October 3, with representatives from Stagecoach, Women in Bus and Coach, key local dignitaries and Mary in attendance.
Mary Curry, along with her colleague, made history over 50 years ago by stepping into a role traditionally dominated by men. Her determination, skill, and passion paved the way for women across the UK to pursue careers in transport, a profession where women now play a vital and growing role.
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 Her legacy lives on in every woman who has taken the driver’s seat and continues to challenge outdated norms in the industry.”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.
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.”
The unveiling of the plaque is a timely reminder of the importance of diversity within the workforce and a celebration of the women who continue to shape the future of the transport industry.
Women in Bus and Coach is a national initiative to encourage, represent, support and retain women in the bus, coach and community transport profession.
To find out more visit https://womeninbusandcoach.org.uk/
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