A BRADFORD district bus driver is to become the voice of a Government safety campaign reminding people of their responsibility during the coronavirus pandemic.

Stephanie Graham, who works for The Keighley Bus Company, will be heard by millions as she takes to the radio to deliver an important message.

The new advertisement, to be aired on national and local stations, will remind everyone using public transport to follow three simple instructions – observe social distancing, wear a face covering while on the bus, and wash or sanitise hands before and after travel.

Mrs Graham was selected by the Department for Transport (DfT) to take part in the campaign after becoming the first winner of a new “Customer Choice” prize at parent firm Transdev’s "Amazing Awards" earlier this year.

Stephanie said: “I’m very proud to play my part in helping to get essential safety information across to people who travel by bus across the whole country – at a time like this, it’s vital that we do everything we can to make sure customers are well informed before making a journey with us.

“I’m looking forward to hearing the radio messages, and while I’m sure one or two of my regular customers will know it’s me, the most important thing is to get the message out there that bus travel can be safe for everyone if we all follow the simple guidelines to control the virus and save lives.”

The "Customer Choice" prize, which Mrs Graham won back in February, came after thousands of Transdev's customers across the north named their favourite driver via postal and online nominations.

Bus users also gave reasons for their selection.

They commended Mrs Graham's personality and also commented on her skills behind the wheel.

She received praise for her smooth and safe driving, which makes customers feel safe and comfortable every time they travel on her bus.

Transdev CEO Alex Hornby said: “We’re delighted that Stephanie’s voice will be heard on radios across the country – Stephanie epitomises everything that’s amazing about the people who deliver our services to thousands of customers across the North every day.

“Buses have a vitally important role to play in restarting the nation’s economy safely, after helping key workers and those who depend on us to access essential services throughout the lockdown.

"We fully endorse the safety messages behind this campaign, and with Stephanie as it’s voice, we’re sure it’ll be heard and heeded throughout the country.”