MORE than 100 new bus drivers have secured employment in West Yorkshire following a specialist training programme.

Launched to help tackle the region’s bus driver shortage, the free ‘Route to Success’ programme has helped people to progress into employment with transport organisations across the region, including Arriva and First.

It comes after there were claims 18 months ago that a chronic shortage of bus drivers would not end anytime soon.

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin said: “We’re upskilling people across the region to support bus operators and get passengers where they need to be.

“I’m thrilled that we’ve helped 100 more people have secured good, well-paid jobs following our investment into this training - with 40 more in the pipeline. 

“This is devolution in action, and it’s helping us to build a stronger and better-connected West Yorkshire that works for all.”

The initiative received investment through the Mayor’s devolved adult education budget.