Oxford Bus Company electric bus named after mechanic

Mark ‘Panda’ Bowyer, a mechanic who spent 49 years at Oxford Bus Company, died shortly after Christmas following a battle with cancer.

The company has now named an electric bus in his memory, placing a plaque on the last vehicle to enter the fleet during his lifetime.

Luke Marion, managing director of Oxford Bus Company, said: “Unveiling the plaque was a poignant way to mark Panda’s remarkable contribution to the business.

“His sterling service is something of a rarity in the modern world, and Panda was a hugely respected and admired member of the team.

“It was touching to share memories with his family and see everyone come together for the special occasion.”

The plaque, which reads ‘In memory of our former colleague, Mark ‘Panda’ Bowyer’, is displayed on the front of the electric bus, which is expected to remain in service for many years to come.

Mr Bowyer’s partner of 18 years, Debbie Kiel, said: “Everyone got together and it was a really lovely day.

“It was a lovely tribute to a lovely man. We shared memories and stories, and it was a proud moment.

“I miss him so much, but I’m so proud of him. He was the funniest bloke, and he made me laugh all the time.

“We were such a good match. He’d know how to make me feel better when I was down.

“He loved his job and his friends, and he had the nicest, kindest manner.

“His colleagues have been so supportive and have been there for me throughout.”

Mr Bowyer was known for his enthusiasm for electric vehicles and was the first workshop colleague to buy an electric car for personal use.

Matty Davis, engineering manager at Oxford Bus Company, said: “Panda had a real love for the electric vehicles.

“His family was impressed by the plaque, and it was a lovely sunny day for everyone to come together.

“Panda was a very funny character, he was always full of beans.

“He knew a lot about music and when a song came on the radio, he would always know who it was and when it came out.

“I’ll always remember him dancing around the workshop.”

Mr Bowyer earned the nickname ‘Panda’ early in his career when he would emerge from cleaning engines and gearboxes with soot-covered cheeks and clean circles around his eyes, thanks to his goggles.