We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Blue Plaque Initiative to honour pioneers who have made significant contributions to the bus, coach, and community transport sectors. This initiative celebrates the women who’ve broken barriers and paved the way for future generations.
We were proud to unveil the first blue plaque in partnership with Stagecoach at Winchester Bus Station to honour Mary Curry, one of the first two women to qualify as a professional bus driver for Hants & Dorset in 1973.
The plaque unveiling took place on Thursday 3rd October at Winchester Bus Station, with representatives from Stagecoach, Women in Bus and Coach Directors Kerri Cheek and Stephen Lynn, key local dignitaries including the Mayor of Winchester Councillor Russell Gordon-Smith, and of course Mary Curry in attendance. This special event paid tribute to Mary’s remarkable contribution to breaking gender barriers in the industry and her lasting impact on generations of women drivers.
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 Her legacy lives on in every woman who has taken the driver’s seat and continues to challenge outdated norms in the industry.”
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.
You can watch the BBC News feature on Mary’s plaque unveiling by clicking here.
To hear from Mary talking about here experiences click: Spotlight on Mary Curry Professional Bus Driver – Women in Bus and Coach
Our second plaque will soon be unveiled at the new Kingston Bus Station honouring Transport for London’s first Women bus driver Jill Viner, and we look forward to sharing these details soon.
If you would like to nominate a women in the bus, coach or community transport sector who should receive a blue plaque, send details to hello@womeninbusandcoach.org.uk.
