Oswestry – Racecourse – Llansillin bus service 1920-30s operated by Tommy LEE (Advertiser 17 Oct 1957)
Mr Tommy Lee Retires
FAMILIAR personality who has driven passengers to and from the Oswestry Racecourse and the surrounding district, Mr Tommy Lee, of The Wern, Weston Rhyn and formerly of Oswestry has retired from the bus service, which he has run daily for 30 years.
A native of Ellesmere, Mr Lee was the first to operate a service in the Racecoursearea when he returned from the First World War, after serving abroad in Palestine andEgypt, in mechanical transport.
At first only a few passengers took advantage of the service, but gradually over the years, more and more found it necessary to get transport to Oswestry and now the route covers an area extending to Rhydycroesau, Llansilin, Moelfre, Rhiwlas
and Cefn Canol.
PRESENTATION
The presentation of a chiming clock and expanding suitcase, was made to Mr Lee
on Thursday at the Racecourse Café by Mr Tomley of Park Ucha, who paid tribute
to Mr Lee’s careful driving in all sorts of weather during which he had never had an accident.
In response, Mr Lee thanked everyone and told the 40 people present that he always endeavoured to ensure the safety of the passengers in preference to being on time.
A cigarette case was also presented to him by schoolchildren who rode on the bus.
The service is being taken over by Mr Percy Edwards of the Racecourse.
Mr Lee is an enthusiastic bowls player being a member of the Belgrave Bowling Club this year runners’ up in the League and winners three times during the last four years.
He has reached the final of the Rhyl competition and has twice represented Shropshire against Staffforshire.
Advertizer 17 October 1957
