Bus driver celebrates Hull’s history by decorating double-decker with city’s famous faces
It may not be your normal-looking bus, but the impressively-decorated double-decker is actually a celebration of Hull’s famous faces and the city’s rich history.
The artwork is the creation of the bus’s dedicated driver Keith Holmes, 31, who is hoping that his portrayal of famous people and landmarks from his City of Culture 2017 home will help educate children about Hull’s past.
The Hull Heritage Bus - which includes the faces of female pilot Amy Johnson, poet Philip Larkin and anti-slave trade activist William Wilberforce - was unveiled by East Yorkshire Motor Services (EYMS) as the service marks its 90th anniversary.
Famous faces - Keith’s imagery is aimed to be educational (Pictures: SWNS)
Keith, who has been driving buses around the city for 12 years, said: “Coming up with ideas for it, I started with Amy Johnson.
"I think she’s one of the most important people from Hull. Then Philip Larkin and we tried to get all the images you associate with those two. So we have frogs and we have statues from the city. We’ve tried to include as many famous faces as we could.”
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The arty driver, who completed the design in just three-and-a-half weeks, picked up his artistic talents by watching YouTube tutorials, perfecting his ability to perform the airbrush-style pieces and said he knew instantly he wanted to showcase Hull.
He said: “I think it should be educational for kids and hopefully parents too, which is why I’ve written the names on the bus so people know exactly who they are seeing.”
Proud - Keith is chuffed that his drawings will be seen across Hull
"It’s really nice to think I’ll see my drawing skills out on the road,” he added.
"I’ve been doing it for while and was really pleased the company showed an interest in using the designs.
"I’m really proud of it and hope others like it too.”
Talent - Keith is now starting a new role as a paint shop technician
His talents have got him noticed within his company and he will be starting a new role in EYMS as a paint shop technician this month.
EYMS Chairman Peter Shipp said that the bus was a real celebration of the city and a suitable way for the company to celebrate their 90th anniversary.
He said: “He’s done a great job, and I think he’s really captured Hull in it. The trawlers, the Wilberforce statue and other sights, it all looks fantastic.”
