Women in Bus and Coach and London Transport Museum celebrated a groundbreaking moment in the history of transport at a packed industry event, with the unveiling of a Women in Bus and Coach blue plaque at the Museum honouring Jill Viner, London’s first female bus driver. This marks a significant step in recognising the contributions of women in the bus, coach and community transport industry, ensuring their stories are preserved for future generations.
Jill Viner made history in 1974 when she became the first woman to drive a London bus licensed to carry passengers. One of the first routes driven by Viner was Route 65, which originally ran between Chessington and Ealing. Today, the route operates between Kingston and Ealing. Maintaining a connection to her legacy, In December 2024, Women in Bus and Coach unveiled a blue plaque commemorating Jill at Kingston’s newly refurbished Cromwell Road bus station. Now, London Transport Museum has showcased a replica of this plaque as part of its displays, further cementing Viner’s place in history.
During the event, the latest Women in Bus and Coach Ambassadors were announced, welcoming Transport for London’s Chief Operating Officer, Claire Mann, and London Transport Museum’s CEO, Elizabeth McKay. The ambassador programme recognises individuals who have made a significant contribution to advancing gender diversity and supporting women in the bus, coach and community transport industry.
In addition to the newly announced Women in Bus and Coach ambassadors, speeches were also made by Women in Bus and Coach Chair Louise Cheeseman, Transport for London Commissioner Andy Lord and Simon Lightwood MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Local Transport in the Department for Transport. They all highlighted how the event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of celebrating women in the sector, while recognising that although the sector had come along way, there is still a lot to do to improve diversity across the industry.
Louise Cheeseman, Chair of Women in Bus and Coach, expressed her excitement for the exhibit: “Jill Viner was a true trailblazer, breaking down barriers and paving the way for women in the bus industry. Seeing her recognised at London Transport Museum was a proud moment for all of us at Women in Bus and Coach, and we hope it will inspire future generations of women to consider a career in the industry.”
Elizabeth McKay, London Transport Museum’s Director and CEO said: ‘Women have always been part of London’s transport story, but their contributions haven’t always been visible. By adding this blue plaque for Jill Viner to our displays, we’re working to address that imbalance. Jill’s achievement as London’s first female bus driver in 1974 marked a significant moment for this industry. It’s especially meaningful for me, as the Museum’s first female Director, to be part of this unveiling and serve as a Women in Bus and Coach Ambassador.’
Claire Mann, TfL’s Chief Operating Officer and WiBC Ambassador, said: “I am thrilled to be named a Women in Bus and Coach ambassador at this incredible event honouring the trailblazing Jill Viner, who truly paved the way for women in our industry. I am passionate about inspiring and empowering more women to join the bus and coach sector, and I am committed to making a lasting impact for many generations to come.”
Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood MP, said: “It was fantastic to work with the bus industry and commemorate one of our true transport pioneers. As the first female London bus driver, Jill broke the glass ceiling and opened up opportunities for women to step into transport. We are committed to backing industry efforts to support women in the bus and coach sector – by breaking down barriers, encouraging diversity, and championing the Women in Bus and Coach Charter”
The Women in Bus and Coach blue plaque initiative aims to shine a light on the remarkable women who have shaped the industry, ensuring their achievements are recognised and remembered. Jill Viner’s plaque at London Transport Museum serves as a lasting tribute to her pioneering work, to find out how you can see Jill’s plaque visit London Transport Museum
