Swapping buses for childcare

A former bus driver says his new job is just the ticket after becoming the first male manager of a new playgroup for youngsters.

Ex-engineer and bus driver George Marston-Gallear is the proud new boss of Sugar and Spice, based at Fordhouses Cricket Club in Wobaston Road.

And while it may be quite a departure from the factory floors to the play mats, he is brimming with excitement about his new challenge.

The 49-year-old enrolled on a childcare learning and development course at Wolverhampton College last year. He hopes to act as a role model by attracting other men into the industry.

An opening ceremony, with a Chinese New Year theme, has been held and Wednesfield father-of-two George hopes it will be a big success.

"I'm very excited about the challenge ahead and I'm glad to be out of the factory and off the buses," he said.

"It's a part-time job as I'm still studying but I hope I can be a pioneer for other men to join this industry - sadly it's still a taboo for men to work with children."

George's interest was sparked while collecting his youngest child from nursery school. A year on and he is relishing the challenges of adult education. "I've worked at numerous engineers in the city, and my last job was as a ring-and-ride bus driver for the elderly.

"But I'm delighted to make the move into another area and I'm enjoying this a whole lot more."

He added: "I think it's so important youngsters are given the proper start in life.

"I really get a buzz from seeing them enjoy themselves and playing together like we used to do as kids.

"These days too many youngsters don't interact and spend too many hours in front of the TV - hopefully I can help change that."

George, who receives funding for his course, still has two years left of his studies and also work as a volunteer at St Patrick's Roman Catholic School in Wednesfield.