Jacqueline Porteous, from Buildwas, set up her successful dog grooming business 20 years ago, launched a second business – Baskit Geni – which she took onto Dragons’ Den in 2011, and most recently passed her Category D coach test after completing a course with leading vehicle training provider Dulson Training. Jacqueline passed that test at the age of 62 and now, two years on and after building up her extensive coach driving experience working for three local-based companies, is keen to share her life experiences with others. “I love challenges in life,” said Jacqueline.
“My dad was a lorry driver and a big inspiration to me. I travelled around with him whenever I could - I absolutely loved the bigger vehicles. “Initially I thought that maybe I could be a minibus driver but someone said why not go for a few more feet? Well, I did, and it was more than just a few feet when I took on the 40ft coaches – but I loved it and it has been a great experience, being of service and helping other people which is really important to me.
“I passed my Cat D test with Dulson Training. They have a great team of trainers who were absolutely brilliant and I couldn’t fault them, particularly when I was coming in as a 62-year-old who had never driven a coach before. They were amazing! “I’ve worked for three different companies since passing my test and now pick up primary aged children from Ditton Priors and take them to and from school.
They are wonderful youngsters and i.