Double Honours for Mary Carruthers at Women in Bus and Coach Awards

Friday 09 October 2026

Two awards, one exceptional leader.

The UK Women in Bus and Coach Annual Summit brought together leaders and professionals from across the sector to share experiences, celebrate achievements and continue driving progress for women in the transport industry. At the event, Huyton Travel's General Manager, Mary Carruthers, was recognised with two of the industry's most prestigious honours, taking home both ‘Best Woman in Bus’ and ‘Woman of the Year’.

Laura Hadzik, Chair of Women in Bus and Coach said “These honours recognise her outstanding leadership, dedication and contribution to the sector, alongside the positive impact she has on those around her.  Mary’s achievements continue to inspire colleagues across the sector, setting a powerful example of excellence and inclusion.”

The awards celebrate Mary’s journey, from her start 24 years ago answering phones, to helping shape Huyton Travel’s future, recognising her contribution to the bus industry and the care for colleagues and community that has guided her throughout. They follow her promotion from Office Manager to General Manager in September 2026, reflecting the responsibility and leadership she has taken on as the business has grown with their acquisition by Tower Transit UK Group.

Mary’s experience and knowledge of the business have helped shape its future, as she has proactively stepped in to a growing leadership role. Her promotion builds on that experience, while her care for colleagues and the community continues to shape how she leads the business. Mary is known for building strong relationships with employees, supporting colleagues to develop and succeed, and maintaining a close connection with the communities Huyton Travel serves—qualities celebrated through her two awards. Her leadership reflects a belief that great transport services start with great people.

Commenting on the award win, Samuel Ribeiro, Tower Transit MD, said:
"We’re incredibly proud of Mary and all she has achieved. She puts so much into supporting others, and it’s wonderful to see her celebrated in this way. We’re excited to support her ideas and give her the scope to make an even greater difference in the community we serve through Huyton Travel."

As Huyton prepares for its next chapter, Mary wants to help more local people build careers and encourage more women to see a future in the industry. Through her work with local schools, including delivering careers sessions and work experience, she is also helping young people discover the range of roles in transport and consider where their own interests and skills could take them. Her advice is direct: “Seek out mentors, build your network, be willing to learn, and don’t be afraid to put yourself forward for opportunities.”

Award Sponsor MCV further recognised Mary’s achievement as Woman of the Year with a week’s holiday in Egypt. This will include a visit to their headquarters outside of Cairo, the largest bus and coach manufacturing facility in the Middle East and Africa.
Across Tower Transit and the wider Kelsian Group, we are proud to celebrate Mary’s success and the colleagues who have shared her journey. 

Congratulations, Mary, on both awards and on the opportunities, you continue to create for others.