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Arriva London bus mechanic, Roy, fulfils his boyhood dream

Roy still works parrt time at Arriva as a mechanicWhat better way to reward yourself for nearly 40 years of hard work, than to buy the car of your dreams; that’s exactly what semi-retired bus mechanic Roy Rodway did when he spent his savings on a Pentland Green Aston Martin Vantage.

Astin Martin Vantage economical to runIt was a boyhood dream for Roy to own a classic British sports car, so when he’d finally saved enough money, always the mechanic, he settled for the Aston Martin because of the fuel economy.

“The Vantage can return 21 miles to the gallon, compared to the DB9 that can only manage 5” said Roy.

Roy paid £57,500 for the car in 2010, and only uses it for occasional trips to Newcastle to see his grandchildren, or at weekends; he still catches the bus to work at Enfield garage, three days a week.

Working hard brings the rewardSelf-confessed workaholic Roy is grateful that his long career has given him the opportunity to fulfil his boyhood dreams. “I have to thank London Transport, Leaside Buses and Arriva for allowing me to put in the extra effort and provide me with such an enjoyable environment to work in” said Roy.

“I’ve worked at just about every garage in Arriva London and have enjoyed every bit of it “he added.

Roy with something to smile aboutRoy comes from what can only be described as a dynasty of bus workers. His father, five brothers, an uncle, brother-in-law and son have all given years of loyal service to the London bus industry.

He joined London Transport as a trainee bus mechanic in January 1976, following in his father’s footsteps.

Published: Fri 21 Oct 2011Modified: Fri 21 Oct 2011

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