A BUS driver has spread Christmas cheer by organising a festive lunch for her passengers.

Southern Vectis driver Jacqueline Levy, of Newport, joined her regular passengers at The White Lion in Niton this week, with 40 attending the Christmas get together.

Jacqueline said: "I drive the number six bus route for Southern Vectis, and the community spirit among my customers is amazing.

"Many of those who travel with me are regulars, and I very much enjoy their company. In all my years of driving a bus, I have never come across such a fabulous group of passengers.

"For some of them, this will be their only festive meal out because they have lost their long term partners. I wanted to do something special for them this Christmas and we were all so excited to come together for this special occasion.

"I'd like to wish everyone I drive for a wonderful Christmas and a peaceful New Year. I look forward to seeing you all in 2018."

Passenger Jan Chambers, 70, said: "We love travelling with Jacqueline. This is a route many of us take on a regular basis, and we've built a wonderful rapport between us all. In an age where so many people keep to themselves and their mobile phones when they're on the bus, it's just so refreshing to enjoy such a friendly atmosphere.

"We'd like to thank Jacqueline for arranging and then joining us for our Christmas meal. A great time was had by all."