Bus Driver Retires After 27 Years of Service on Local Routes

Published on: 2 Sep, 2025
Updated on: 3 Sep, 2025

Tim Restall pictured as his passengers have known him – in a bus cab.

The career of one of its longest-serving drivers is being celebrated by Stagecoach South.

Tim Restall has retired after 27 years and 5 months behind the wheel. Based mainly at Guildford depot and spending many years at Haslemere outstation, he has become a well- known and trusted face for passengers on local rural routes.

After he started his career as a bricklayer, a back injury prompted him to look for a new path. A doctor suggested he needed a change and he soon found his calling at Stagecoach. “I’ve never looked back,” he said.

“The bus industry is about people. Over the years, I’ve got to know my passengers, and they’ve got to know me. That’s what made the job special. Working across both Haslemere and Guildford, the teams are close-knit, and it’s been like working with family.”

Throughout his career, he drove many well-loved services including the 59 and 71 rural routes, as well as school services, and remembers with pride the strong bonds built with regular passengers and fellow drivers alike.

“There’s always been a good understanding between the engineering team and the drivers. They’re a good bunch of guys. It’s been steady, honest work, and I’ve no complaints. My advice to anyone thinking about it is you’ve got nothing to lose. You get paid while you train, and if you like people, it’s a great career.”

Tim Restall (left) signs off and shakes hands with Graham Harmer, operations manager at Stagecoach South.

Graham Harmer, operations manager at Stagecoach South, paid tribute to his service: “He’s been a rock for the team here at Guildford. The drivers, engineers, and passengers all respect him – he’ll be missed not just for his professionalism but for his good humour and steady presence.

“Retirement always takes a bit of adjusting, but just because you’ve left doesn’t mean you can’t come in for a coffee. He’ll always be part of the Stagecoach family.”

As Tim heads into retirement, he plans to spend more time with family and is looking forward to a well-earned holiday in Greece.