Thomas Ayres was recognised for 40 years service as a bus driver by Stagecoach Manchester at a special awards presentation held at the city's Radisson Edwardian hotel.

He was one of 42 staff who collectively have over 1,000 years of service to the company, to receive long service awards and a bouquet of flowers for their guests at the dinner. Employees had already received a high quality gift to mark the actual anniversary of their employment with the company.

Mark Threapleton from Stagecoach said: "I am delighted to express my genuine appreciation and congratulations to Thomas for his commitment to the company.

"We are very proud to have so many loyal and long serving staff.

"Their dedication to the job has helped establish and maintain our good name in the region.

"Everyone at the awards had at least 20 years service and five were receiving 40 year awards, which is no mean feat in any job."