Ullapool 961 bus route driver hailed by Scottish Citylink for rising to blizzard challenge
A ROSS-SHIRE bus driver who safely delivered passengers to Ullapool from Inverness in “blizzard” conditions has been hailed by his employer and grateful customers.
Ross Groves was given a shout out from Scottish Citylink for going above and beyond on his 961 route linking Ullapool with the Highland capital.
The company posted: “Wintry weather has created difficult driving conditions on Scotland’s roads, but this isn’t a problem for our driver Ross who continues to exceed customer expectations.
“One passenger said ‘A big thank you to Ross, the always cheerful driver of the 961 bus who safely drove us from Inverness to Ullapool last night in challenging conditions and again tonight back to Inverness in a blizzard. Really appreciate you.’
“Thanks for your hard work, you are an asset to our network!”
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The note of appreciation coincided with some horrific conditions on the public transport network during a week of unsettled weather that culminated in a Storm Bert weather warning.
Ross, a former Tain Royal Academy pupil, himself took to Facebook to thank customers after a wave of appreciative comments: “Thank you everyone such nice comments to read, what a way to end the week this just me been me and I'll never change thank you all very much appreciated here's to many more years on the 961.”
Helen Mackenzie wrote: “Fab times on the 961 - you play the best tunes and are so helpful to everyone.”
Carol Ann Peacock wrote: “Ross Groves you are a credit to your company - I wish all drivers were as cheery and helpful as you!”
Angela May Shaw posted: “Ross was brilliant a while ago when myself and my daughter in law and my autistic son travelled on his bus. Made it the first relaxed journey for us on that route. I know that it has been a while Ross but it hasn't been forgotten. Thank you for all you did to make it that way.”
Angela Wylie added: “Ross is a great example of excellent customer service and takes pride in his job. He cares and that carries over into his interactions with customers and his driving. I always feel safe when he is driving. Well done Ross - well deserved!”
Claudia Rittig said other drivers can learn from him. She posted: “Absolutely fab driver! I took the 961 bus from Ullapool to Inverness this summer with my bike and he was so welcoming and helpful when loading my bike despite lots of other passengers waiting to board. Other bus drivers can learn a lot from him. Thanks for this fantastic experience on my holiday.”
Someone you feel deserves recognition as a Highland Hero? Find out how to nominate the heroes in your community for awards run by Highland News and Media, the parent company of the Ross-shire Journal. Category details here.
