Lothian’s Doors Open Day moves online!Popular event at Central Garage to be held virtually during pandemic

For obvious and understandable reasons, Lothian is sadly unable to host its annual Doors Open Day.

Previous events – which see the garage at Central throw open its doors to let members of the public see the inner workings of the award-winning bus firm – have attracted thousands of visitors.

With current health restrictions and concerns over public safety, it would be unwise to attempt to hold the event this year. It’s not a complete write-off, however as this year’s Doors Open Day is moving online!

On Saturday 26 September, Lothian will be posting a series of video shorts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram featuring representatives of the company’s charity of choice, Support in Mind Scotland, as they take a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the garage, speak to key members of staff from across the business, and see for themselves just what it takes to keep buses on the roads across Edinburgh and the Lothians 365 days a year!

For those who reckon they could see themselves behind the wheel of an Enviro400XLB three-axle double decker, we’ve got a list of 12 questions which form part of the theory test all Lothian drivers must sit. Click here for the Bus Driver Theory Quiz and answer key to see if you’ve got what it takes to be a Lothian driver!

For younger bus enthusiasts, Lothian have put together a Doors Open Day Activity Pack, including word searches, a bus maze, mini quiz and more. The Kids Activity Pack can be downloaded here. Plus, any completed packs which are posted to our head office at Central before Sunday 11 October will receive a Lothian Buses goodie bag.

Ordinarily our charity of choice would be represented at the event, ready to meet visitors to explain more about their work and to collect donations. Since this isn’t possible, we’d love for participants in our online Doors Open Day to consider making a donation to Support in Mind Scotland through this JustGiving page. We’re immensely grateful for the work of Support in Mind Scotland, particularly at this time when everyone is feeling the strain and pressure of everyday life, so any contributions would be very much appreciated.

Gaynor Marshall, Communications Director said: “As sad as we are that our popular Doors Open Day event is unable to take place this year, we’re delighted to offer our customers and visitors the chance to take a look behind the scenes at Lothian through our digital platforms.

“Despite the ongoing challenges we continue to face as a business we hope that everyone who joins us on Saturday has fun exploring Central Garage virtually.”