Some people seek a career that’s more than just a job - it’s a passion. This is certainly true for Judy Price, who has spent the last 37 years doing what she loves most: driving coaches. From school trips to historic events, her journey highlights the fulfilment that comes with a life spent behind the wheel. As Judy’s time in the industry draws to a close, let’s take a trip down memory lane and celebrate her remarkable career as a coach driver.
A Dream Born on the Road
"My love of coaches started when I was five years old," Judy recalls. "I've always wanted to drive a coach—not a bus, not a lorry—a coach!" This early fascination became the foundation of her lifelong career. Having travelled on Dudley’s Coaches during school trips, she experienced firsthand the excitement of coach travel. In 1986, after overcoming a major spine operation, she was finally able to pursue her dream, obtaining her PSV licence and passing her driving test in February 1987.
That same year, her first job was a four-day tour visiting cities like Oxford, London, Windsor, and Bath. “I was thrown in at the deep end,” she remembers, “but my childhood dream had come true.”
A Career Full of Memorable Journeys
Over the years, Judy has had the privilege of participating in some of the most memorable events. “I’m glad to have been able to work on the World Scout Jamboree in 2007 and the London Olympics in 2012—events that we won’t see in this country again in my lifetime.” Moments like these - meeting new people and travelling to exciting places - highlight just how unique coach driving can be.
But it wasn’t just big events that made the job rewarding. For Judy, it was all about the passengers. “You have to adapt to the needs of your passengers and make them happy. That’s what I’ve enjoyed most. There are good days and bad days, like with anything, but you get out of life what you put into it.”
Camaraderie on the Road
While driving coaches, Judy didn’t just develop a passion for travel, she also found a community. "I’ll miss the camaraderie and banter with my colleagues in the coaching industry," she says. Coach driving can be all about teamwork at times, working closely with other drivers, mechanics, and office staff to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for passengers. This sense of community is what makes coach driving so special. Despite being on the road alone, you also have a team behind you!
Flexibility and Family
Balancing family life with a coach driving career can also be a fulfilling experience. In Judy’s case, coach driving became a family affair. “When Gareth was little, I used to take him everywhere with me,” she says. That early exposure to the job inspired Gareth to follow in her footsteps, making coach driving a legacy in their family.
It wasn’t just about full-time driving for Judy. The flexibility of part-time work allowed her to prioritise family while still enjoying her passion for being on the road. "I drove part-time for many years while working as a radiographer. It gave me the opportunity to have a fulfilling career while also raising a family."
A Final Farewell
After an incredible 37 and a half years on the road, Judy has decided to retire. "The final day of my coach driving career will be when my CPC expires on September 9th, 2024." And in true Judy style, she plans to spend her last day driving for three different companies: Henshaw’s in the morning, Cresswells mid-morning, and ending with Royal Motorways, where her journey began.
As her career comes to a close, Judy looks back fondly on the memories, the places she’s visited, and the people she’s met. "What have I enjoyed the most? Well, all of it!" Her passion for coach driving has never changed, and it's clear that her journey was not just about the destinations but the people too.
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