THERE was a chance to get behind the driving wheel of a double-decker bus as Stagecoach held an open day in 2002.

Among those keen to tackle the driving circuit on Walney airfield was Furness Building Society chief executive Rob Cairns.

Keeping a close eye on all the amateur bus drivers was trainer John Burley.

He said: “A lot of people find the size of the bus intimidating but once they get behind the wheel it’s very similar to driving a car.”

The Mail, on June 3, said the company opened its depot in Park Road, Barrow, to the public and had 19 classic buses on show – some dating back to the 1930s – plus a collection of vintage motorcycles.

Bus enthusiast Bob Downham, from Preston, was among the visitors and enjoyed seeing buses he recalled from his childhood.

He said: “It’s great to see them again and I’m having a wonderful time.”