Midland Bluebird Service 38 Named Scotland's Best Bus Service

Midland Bluebird’s Service 38 has been crowned Best Bus Service at the prestigious Scottish Transport Awards, recognising the route’s outstanding performance, passenger growth and investment in sustainable transport.

The award-winning service, which operates between Falkirk and Stirling, has become one of the strongest-performing bus routes in Scotland, connecting communities across the Forth Valley with key destinations including schools, Forth Valley Royal Hospital, employment centres and major shopping areas.

Judges praised the service’s significant passenger growth, increased service frequency and investment in electric vehicles. Passenger numbers have increased by 38 per cent over the past year and by 52 per cent since McGill’s Group acquired Midland Bluebird in 2022.

In September last year, a £14million investment by McGill’s Group brought a new fleet of 30 zero-emission electric single-decker buses to the route.

The route also delivers exceptional operational performance, achieving 99.8 per cent reliability alongside class-leading punctuality levels.

The award was presented at the Scottish Transport Awards in Glasgow and received on behalf of Midland Bluebird by Scotland East Area Director Graeme Leslie.

McGill’s Group also celebrated success in the Frontline Employee of the Year category, with driver Pummy Hadebe receiving a Highly Commended award following her remarkable actions in helping deliver a baby on board a McGill’s service earlier this year.

Graeme Leslie, Scotland East Area Director at Midland Bluebird, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Service 38 has been recognised as Scotland’s Best Bus Service.

“This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team at Larbert depot, from our drivers and engineers to our operational and support colleagues. Together, they have helped transform the service into one that local communities can rely upon day in, day out.

“The growth we have achieved demonstrates what can be delivered when operators invest in better services, increased frequencies and modern, environmentally friendly vehicles. Service 38 plays a vital role connecting people with employment, education, healthcare and leisure opportunities across the Forth Valley.

“This award demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained investment. The introduction of 30 new electric buses, combined with service improvements, has helped drive record passenger growth and create a service that communities across the Forth Valley are proud to use.”

Graeme added: “I am also delighted that my colleague Pummy Hadebe was recognised with a Highly Commended award. Her actions captured the hearts of people across Scotland and exemplify the professionalism, care and commitment shown by our frontline colleagues every day.”

The Scottish Transport Awards bring together operators, policymakers and transport professionals from across the country to celebrate excellence and innovation within Scotland’s transport sector.