Pioneer Helen earns brilliant recognition

• Perth-based Stagecoach driver honoured with two prestigious blue plaques
• Helen Clifford made history as London Transport’s first female bus mechanic in 1984
• Stagecoach colleague recognised for inspiring generations of women in transport

A Perth bus driver whose groundbreaking career helped pave the way for women across the transport industry has been honoured with two prestigious blue plaques recognising her pioneering contribution to bus and coach.

Helen Clifford, who has worked as a driver with Stagecoach in Perth since 2013, made history in 1984 when, aged just 18, she became London Transport’s first female bus mechanic.

This week, Helen’s remarkable achievements were celebrated by Women in Bus and Coach with plaques unveiled at Stratford Bus Interchange and the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden.

Now more than 40 years after breaking down barriers in the industry, Helen continues to serve communities across Perthshire as a valued member of the Stagecoach South Scotland team.

Helen said: “It’s incredibly special to be recognised in this way, and to share the moment with my family makes it even more meaningful.

“When I started out, I simply wanted to do a job I loved, but I’m proud to know that it helped challenge perceptions and create opportunities for others.

“Seeing how far the industry has come since then is truly rewarding, and I hope my story encourages more women to consider a career in transport.”

David Frenz, Operations Director for Stagecoach South Scotland, said: “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Helen for the past 10 years and it is brilliant to see her receive such well-deserved acclaim for the role she has played in our industry.

“Helen is a valued member of our team and we’re privileged to have such an important figure in the history of transport driving our buses every day in Perth.

“She has inspired generations of women working across the sector and continues to be a fantastic ambassador for the industry and for Stagecoach.”

Helen’s story continues to inspire colleagues and communities alike, reflecting the vital role women play across the transport sector and the positive progress made in creating opportunities throughout the industry.