You're doing grand, son

COACH DRIVER IMPRESSES AS HE FOLLOWS IN EXPERIENCED RELATIVE'S TYRE TRACKS

- PAIGE OLDFIELD

ONE of the oldest staff members at a coach company is helping the youngest recruit to earn his spurs - his grandson.

John Gilbody, 73, was thrilled when 22-year-old Louie Mulcair joined Stockport company Belle Vue Manchester after being made redundant from his job during the pandemic.

Louie started as a valeter and made such a good impression with his enthusiasm and abilities that bosses soon offered him the chance to train as a driver. Having quickly achieved his qualifications, he was assigned to school bus routes and coach trips.

Louie and John, who both live in Stockport, have teamed up for a number of trips, including taking Manchester City fans to Wembley matches, a wedding party to London and charity bike riders to Blackpool.

The proud grandfather said: "Louie has done very well for himself. He qualified with flying colours, and is now gaining experience across the range of services. It's been great when we've been paired together on trips, and I get a lot of pleasure from seeing him thriving in his career."

With more than 40 years under his belt, John is frequently asked by his colleagues for advice - and none more so than Louie.