Tributes pour in after death of Sullivan Buses' Steve Simmonds

Steve Simmonds, commercial manager at Sullivan Buses, passed away aged 63 on January 28, with tributes flooding in.

Mr Simmonds joined Sullivan Buses in 2011 after retiring from a lengthy career in central government and he put his heart and soul into his work for the company.

A lifelong bus enthusiast, Mr Simmonds also incorporated his work into the community, particularly in Borehamwood, taking buses to events like the town carnival, John Teddy's Trails, and On the Buses rec-creations.

He was credited with saving the bus service between Borehamwood and Watford in 2012, still running today as the 306, while he worked closely with a number of schools in south Hertfordshire to provide services.

He also recently secured funding to increase the frequency of the 398 service.

Steve pictured in Watford town centre in 2018 when he was campainging to improvie disabled access. Credit: Holly Cant

Sullivan Buses managing director Dean Sullivan said: "Steve had a real passion for people and his work and he always came up with a lot of ideas.

"He put the customers first and he cared passionately for them, the schools and all of the people he came across."

Father-of-one Mr Simmonds was Mr Sullivan's trusted right-hand man who he knew he could rely on because of his dedication he showed to the job.

He added: "Steve was very, very dedicated to his work and worked tirelessly both in the office and at home to nurture his 'baby' (the 306). Its easy to use those words – but in his case he was genuinely dedicated to the people of Hertsmere and the wider community."

Steve Simmonds pictured on one of the buses for Elstree Studios' 90th anniversary celebrations. Credit: Sullivan Buses

Among the dozens of tributes that have poured in from the public, Mr Simmonds was hailed for his "knowledge" of the area and routes Sullivan Buses operated in, as well as for his "enthusiasm" which Mr Sullivan says will "find difficult to replace".

The leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, Morris Bright, said: "Steve was just the nicest of guys. I met him many times over the years, usually at events at Elstree Studios - particularly our 90th anniversary celebrations a few years ago - where Steve was always the first to volunteer to assist and help.

"He was friendly, kind and always happy to give of his time to help other people. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing and send my deepest condolences to his family.

"At this very difficult time I hope they will take strength from the many happy memories they will have of this very special man."

Nik Oakley, a member of the Hertsmere Labour group, said: "Steve was always full of ideas, always keen to engage with the local community and find ways to keep the local services running despite challenging times.

"It is so rare in privatised public transport operation to find someone so ready to engage and share. He will be a huge loss to Sullivan Buses and to those who have benefited from his time and generosity.

"My heart goes out to his colleagues, family and friends."