Stagecoach bus driver David Hands has been made an MBE in the New Year Honours for services to public transport.

David (62), who is based at the company's depot in Sunderland, has been a driver for Stagecoach for eight years and is a popular character with his colleagues across the region. He is also known to many Stagecoach passengers for his running commentary to brighten their journey.

During his time as a driver, David has also worked tirelessly for various charities, including the Sunderland Counselling Service and St. Benedict's Hospice. This Christmas, he dressed up as Santa Claus for three weeks to raise funds for the hospice.

David is also Chairman of Sunderland's Counselling Service. He became involved in the charity five years ago after his wife - who also works for the Service - asked him to attend a meeting with her.

He volunteered to sit on the management committee and was elected Chairman the following year. David now leads a dedicated team of volunteers who provide counselling to the bereaved and those coping with life-limiting illnesses.

Speaking of his MBE, David said: "I was so surprised to receive the award as I was not aware that the company had nominated me. It is a great honour, but I am a little overwhelmed by it all, as I am just an ordinary person doing my job and some voluntary work on the side.

"I am proud of this achievement, though, and would like to thank my family and friends and everyone at Stagecoach for their ongoing support."

John Conroy, Managing Director of Stagecoach North East, said: "We are delighted that David's hard work and commitment has been recognised in the New Year Honours.

"As a driver he is dedicated and hard-working and always prepared to go that extra mile for his colleagues and customers alike. His charity and voluntary work is an inspiration to all those who come in contact with him and he is so deserving of his MBE."