SOUTHERN Vectis is inviting Isle of Wight women to explore a new career as bus drivers.

The operator is hosting a bus driving event at Rookley Test Centre on Thursday, October 3.

This will allow interested individuals to experience what it is like to drive a bus in a safe, off-road environment.

Nikki Honer, Southern Vectis head of communications, said: "Across the UK, women are still vastly under-represented in this field, and we want to encourage more of them to consider working within the bus industry as a driver.

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"We often hear from women that they don’t feel they could drive a bus. We know this is not the case.

"If they can drive a car, we will teach them the rest.

"With the right training, it’s far easier than many might think."

The event will have friendly training instructors from the Southern Vectis driving school, on hand, all day.

They will introduce participants to double-decker buses, before giving them a chance to drive around the Rookley Test Centre.

A specially branded bus, featuring the faces of many of the existing female team members, will be present at the event, to raise awareness and attract more women into the industry.

Nikki continued: "By showcasing the women who already work here, we feel this will help encourage more women to give a career in the bus industry a go."

The event will also provide a chance for those interested in joining Southern Vectis, to learn more about the role, and meet some of the women who already work there.

People with a customer service or retail background are particularly welcome, as this kind of experience is valued as highly as driving skills.

"We’re looking forward to welcoming lots of potential Southern Vectis team members," adds Nikki.

The event will take place between 10am and 2pm at Rookley Test Centre, Pritchett’s Way, Rookley. The site is accessible by car as well as by bus. Route 3 stops at 'Rookley, The Lakes'.

Southern Vectis is also accepting applications from anyone, regardless of gender, for full-time or part-time bus driver positions.