Newbie Bus Driver Becomes Sheep Whisperer on A27!
Runaway Sheep Sparks Chaos on Eastbourne Route
Martine Patey was on her first-ever Rail Replacement bus duty when things took a wild turn. Setting off for Eastbourne on a seemingly normal Sunday morning, she suddenly found herself chasing a runaway sheep causing mayhem on the A27.
Heroic Rescue with Just a Handbag Strap
Spotting a coach with its hazards on, Martine noticed a flash of white dashing behind it, sending cars swerving. An animal lover to the core, she jumped out to help. “The sheep was running all over the road,” Martine said. “It was tricky to catch, but then it slipped right in front of me. I used my handbag strap like a lasso.”
With two helpful motorists joining in, they managed to hold the sheep until police arrived.
Police Instruct Temporary Sheep Sitter
The officers told Martine to take the woolly escapee to a nearby farm to await the farmer. Impressive stuff, Martine still made it to Eastbourne—just one minute late.
Baa-dass Bus Driver Award Goes to Martine!
Check out the snapped moment of Martine with her fluffy new friend on the bus, proving she’s more than just a driver—she’s a proper shepherd too! And don’t worry, she wasn’t driving at the time; the bus was safely parked with the handbrake on.
Well done, Martine! From newbie driver to sheep wrangler—what a start to your Rail Replacement career!
