‘Mr Sussex’ named on one of 38 brand new Coaster Buses

Ian Steedman, also known as Mr Sussex and founder of the locally celebrated ‘Sussex Day’, has been named on one of Brighton & Hove’s brand-new Coaster buses (bus 730).

Sussex Day itself falls on 16th June and has become a popular way for residents to celebrate its rich heritage and beautiful landscape, and Ian was a huge champion of all the walks that could be done from the various destinations along Coast bus routes.

Ian’s family and friends met with the team at Brighton & Hove Buses to celebrate the launch of the newly named bus. The bus itself is one of 44 new Enviro400 MMC buses that have joined the fleet this year, 38 of which have replaced the popular Coaster buses with brand new livery. In keeping with the company’s dedication to accessibility, all buses are fitted with double wheelchair bays, dementia-friendly seating and flooring, next-stop audio announcements and charging points at every seat. 

The Coaster buses run along the south coast connecting Brighton, Rottingdean, Peacehaven, Newhaven, Seaford, and Eastbourne.

Ian's wife, Ruth Steedman, said: "Ian was a huge advocate for bus travel, and even used to work on the buses as a bus conductor. He would have been delighted to know he was named on the front of a bus, and it has been a real delight for me and my family to see him honoured on one of the new buses. I hope Sussex Day can continue to flourish in his memory. 

“We all had a lovely Bank Holiday trip on board his named bus too, visiting many of the places that Ian wrote about along the coast. And what’s more, these new buses are fantastic! As a wheelchair user, I was particularly impressed with the accessibility features, including the 2 wheelchair bays.” 

Nick Hill, Commercial Director at Brighton & Hove Buses, said: “We’re extremely proud to have Ian named on one of our new Coaster Buses. As the mind behind the day that celebrates all of the wonderful sights and attractions Sussex has to offer, it seems only fitting to have him on one of our Coaster routes that take passengers past some of Sussex’s most iconic hotspots every day.”

 

Plan your next day out on one of our Coasters here: https://www.buses.co.uk/plan-your-journey