Tara's Story - Flying the flag at York Pride

On Saturday 7th June, our team proudly joined the celebrations at York Pride with our brand-new ‘Pride in Every Journey’ bus. Teams from York, West Yorkshire and Rochdale came together to take part in the colourful parade.

One person who played a very special part in the day was driver Tara (Tim) Webster, who was the first person in the country to get behind the wheel of our new Pride-liveried bus.

We caught up with Tara to find out more about what the experience meant to them.

Hi Tara! Can you tell us a bit about your role at First Bus?

I’ve been with First Bus for eight years as a driver, mainly on the city routes at York. I work four-day shifts as Tim, but as I explore my gender identity, I’m increasingly working as Tara, usually on University and Park & Ride routes.

You were the first to drive the new Pride bus, how did that feel?

Honestly, it was a privilege. Not just because I was the first person to drive it, but because it was also my first ever Pride. That made it even more special.

What was it like seeing the bus for the first time?

I love the Pride branding. The fact that 36518 is a York bus, one of our own, really hit home. It felt like a statement about who we are and the kind of inclusive team we have here.

How did it feel to represent First Bus at the event?

It meant a lot. My gender journey is ongoing, and while some colleagues have known me as Tim for years, they’ve been incredibly supportive as I’ve started working more as Tara. Just small things, like a wave from a driver on their day off, or a friendly “hi” in the canteen. These have given me the confidence to be more myself at work. That support means everything, and if my visibility helps even one other person feel more accepted, it’s worth it.

Why do you think it’s important for companies like First Bus to be part of Pride?

Diversity is a strength. Taking part in events like Pride shows that everyone is welcome, as a customer or colleague. My journey has been shaped by honest conversations with teammates, often on the night shift. There’s real value in that openness.

How did people react to the bus during the parade?

The reaction was fantastic. One benefit of our electric buses is that they’re quiet, so I could hear people’s comments! We had a photo on the dashboard of Kev Hagen, a much-missed colleague and a big part of York’s LGBTQ+ community. It was emotional hearing people recognise him and call out his name, some even came on board to take photos.

What message would you share with colleagues about being an ally or supporting Pride?

It’s okay not to know everything. Pride is about respect and understanding. If you’re unsure, just talk to someone. Try your best with names or pronouns, and if you slip up, just learn from it. Even a small gesture can mean the world.

And finally… what was your favourite moment from the day?

Not actually a Parade memory, however, sending a photo of me in my First Bus uniform to my mum and her replying, “You look stunning in your uniform.” That one really stayed with me.

“Taking part in Pride wasn’t just about celebration. It was about visibility, community, and showing that everyone belongs.”

Tara Webster, Driver, First Bus York