Procession to honour 'legendary' coach driver

David McKenna
BBC News
Cartwright family photo A man in a cap, waistcoat, shirt and tie standing in front of a coach. There is a number plate in the window with "legend" printed on it.Cartwright family photo
Alan Cartwright, who co-founded Osbournby-based A&P Travel, spent more than 60 years on the road

A long-serving Lincolnshire coach driver who died in May will take one final journey on a vintage bus as part of a funeral procession in his honour.

Alan Cartwright, who co-founded Osbournby-based A&P Travel with his son Paul in 2006, died on 9 May after more than 60 years on the road.

The bus, a 1950s Bedford OB, will be joined by several modern coaches for a procession around some of the firm's local pick up points later, including Grantham and Sleaford.

A memorial service will then take place at St Wulfram's Church, Grantham.

Robert Lamb/Geograph Vintage bus exhibition. People are looking at a blue and cream coloured bus. It has two large headlights at the front and a bonnet with air grills. A metal fuel filler cap can be seen on the vehicle's right side.Robert Lamb/Geograph
A Bedford OB, of the type pictured, will carry Mr Cartwright on his final journey

Paying tribute, Paul Cartwright said: "My father lived and breathed the coach tourism industry, taking people to places and creating memories for thousands of people across six decades.

"He will be sorely missed by so many people across the county and country.

"We hope for it to be a fitting tribute to a lifetime career."

Mr Cartwright also thanked people for their kind comments and gestures following the passing "of our legendary leader".

"We've received so many kind words from all corners of our coaching community and customer base. We are truly so grateful," he added.

This post on A&P Travel's Facebook page summed up many of the responses from customers.

"RIP Alan the legend, thank you for all our great memories you gave everyone on your day trips and holidays."

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