NEWPORT Transport has been made an official bronze award member of the UK Government’s Defence Employer Recognition Scheme for its work supporting former and current members of the armed forces.

The scheme encourages employers to help the armed forces by employing ex-defence personnel and support those who are already enlisted for reservist duties.

To be recognised by the government for the award, an employer must show a commitment to employing current or former members.

Newport Transport currently employs 16 people who have served or still are serving in the armed forces, 12 of who are bus drivers.

They include Gareth Jones, a former member of the RAF police squadron and veteran of the Northern Ireland conflict, who is projects manager at the bus company.

He said: “The company is hugely proactive in providing opportunities and support for those who have served in the army and those who still are.

“It’s great therefore that this commitment has been recognised by the organisers of the ERS. It is not always easy to find career pathways when leaving the armed forces, but Newport Transport is providing these opportunities.”

Scott Pearson, Managing Director of Newport Transport, said: “We are very honoured to have been recognised by the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme in this way.

“As a company which prides itself on the diversity of its workforce, we appreciate hugely the dedication and experience of the men and women who work for Newport Transport from an armed forces background. Like the rest of our staff, their work is exemplary and their commitment to our customers is second to none.

“We are also very proud of our support of the Royal British Legion. We have dedicated buses in our fleet in memory of those who have served this country. This includes former employees of Newport Transport who sadly lost their lives in the Great War. In memory of these fallen heroes, five of our buses have their names bestowed upon them.

“The poppies that accompany their names will remain there until the 100th anniversary of the end of the war in 2018. We are grateful to all of those who have put the lives of the many before their own and will continue to support former and current armed forces members in the years to come.”