THERE is nothing like heading out for a Saturday morning drive – especially when it is in a 10-tonne bus.

For reporters Flora Thompson and Neil Vowles, this is exactly what they woke up to this weekend when they took part in a Brighton and Hove Bus Company open day.

The pair put their driving skills to the test and went head to head to discover who could handle a passenger bus best.

The contest took place on ‘ladies day’ which offered women the chance to try bus driving at the company’s Newhaven depot.

The event formed part of a recruitment drive to urge more female drivers to take on the role.

Bus driving instructors guided high-vis clad participants on single and double decker training buses around a course, marked out with cones and coloured poles.

Instructor Tony Wellbelove briefed both Neil and Flora through their manoeuvres, and scored them out of 10 on a number of skills.

The pair had to master the controls, steering, brakes and mirrors of the automatic bus as they took on the route which involved turning and navigating past markers.

He said a key tip was to always make sure the back wheels were clear of an obstacle before turning.

Mr Wellbelove, while praising both drivers for their efforts, decided Flora was the winner due to her competent steering, turning technique and smooth braking.

Flora said: “On behalf of all driving women I was pleased to win.

“But the task really did show that handling a bus is only marginally different to driving a car – and anyone can do it with the right guidance.

“Understanding the abilities of the steering on tight turns was an eye-opener. It was great to be able to take part.”

Neil said: “I was impressed with the steering. I have increased respect for the drivers who have to navigate these vehicles every day. I thoroughly enjoyed the chance to test out the bus.”

Photographer Liz Finlayson, who tested out one of the double deckers, was the only participant to knock over a cone.

What other people thought

Around 20 women turned up to take part – acting as passengers while each driver took their turn.

Car driving instructor Kirsty Bryant, of Southwick, said: “I am always keen to try any driving experience. It is very similar to driving a car.

“But remembering the wheels were situated behind the driver’s seat was quite different.”

Jayne Morris, of Newhaven, said: “I think the event was a great idea and showed anyone can drive a bus.

“Traditionally I think it has been considered as a man’s job but it would be great to see more female drivers and I think bus driving would be a good job.”

How the reporters scored

Tony Wellbelove marked Neil and Flora out of 10 for each skill:

Braking: Neil – 7; Flora – 7

Steering: Neil – 5; Flora – 7

Turning: Neil – 7; Flora – 8

Listening to instructions: Neil – 9; Flora – 9

Total score: Neil – 28; Flora – 31