Meet the most festive bus driver in the North East

Our bus driver Julie Richardson is spreading holiday cheer by wearing a different Christmas-themed outfit every day in December, turning what might otherwise be a tough month into one filled with laughter and joy. 

Julie, who has been driving for Go North East for 21 years, has spent hundreds of pounds on her festive wardrobe. Her collection includes costumes like the Grinch, a Christmas pudding, a turkey, a candy cane, a gingerbread man, and her personal favourite - the Nutcracker. 

Julie says: “December is a challenging month for me. It’s a time of sadness and loss, as I’ve lost several family members and close friends in Decembers gone by.  

“Dressing up in festive costumes brings joy back into Christmas for me, and it makes my passengers and colleagues smile too. My regulars know me and look forward to seeing my crazy outfits!” 

Julie starts her shifts at our Percy Main depot at 4am, but her early starts don’t stop her from putting full effort into her costumes. “I’m up at 2:30am to paint my face green like the Grinch or stick on my Nutcracker moustache and wig,” she says. 

Julie isn’t the only Go North East driver embracing the festive spirit. We're encouraging drivers to wear Christmas jumpers, with many adding their own touch to brighten passengers’ days. 

If you’d like to join Julie and the Go North East team, visit www.gonortheast.co.uk/join-the-team.