Busmen learn a new language for 2008 visitors

Sep 26 2007 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

BUS drivers are taking lessons in foreign languages to help welcome visitors during Liverpool’s Capital of Culture year.

The classes are being run at bus operator Arriva’s Birkenhead depot, with drivers from routes across Merseyside and Cheshire studying two days a week in between shifts.

It means they should be able to greet Spanish passengers in their own language, after gaining a certificate from West Cheshire College.

Language tutor Pauline Ceballos said: “The bus drivers expressed an interest in learning Spanish to increase their confidence in speaking to foreign visitors ahead of 2008.

“The region already has an increasing number of visitors, but this is likely to double next year when the European Capital of Culture celebrations get under way in Liverpool.”

Rob Cheveaux, general manager at Arriva’s Runcorn garage added: “We’re delighted with the training.

“It has given a real boost to drivers’ confidence in speaking to foreign visitors and was delivered successfully to fit in around their shift patterns.”

Liverpool’s cab drivers have already asked for help in learning foreign languages to help deal with the crowds of tourists expected from France, Spain, Holland, Italy and Germany in 2008.