Stagecoach brought a burst of festive joy to West Cumbria with a surprise musical treat for passengers on route from Whitehaven to Workington. 

Twelve members of Whitehaven Male Voice Choir quietly took their seats among early travellers on Monday, December 8, before suddenly filling the No. 30 service with Christmas carols, delighting everyone on board.

The stunt formed part of a new feel-good PR campaign designed to celebrate community spirit, showcase the acclaimed choir, and highlighting how public transport can bring people together.

It was also a way for the choir, which formed in 1977, to thank Stagecoach for its recent sponsorship.

Choir chairman Chris Parrish said: “We’re singing today to help get passengers into the festive spirit because they do say if you feel happy in the morning you feel happy all day.

“We’re trying to make people very festive and happy for Christmas.”

Fellow member Julian Berkeley added: “We talk a lot about mental health and singing is just fantastic in terms of raising your spirits and making you feel better about yourself and about life in general.”

On arrival at Workington Bus Station, the choir continued to spread Christmas goodwill, performing more seasonal favourites for surprised passengers waiting to begin their journeys.

Their morning of music was rounded off with coffee and cake provided by Café West in Workington.

It was covered on ITV News and the resulting video is set to appear on Stagecoach’s social media channels.

Passenger Shirley said: “It was a very enjoyable journey because of the lovely singing by the choir. It’s uplifting and inspiring at Christmas time.”

Another passenger, Melanie said it was “the best journey to Workington I’ve ever had”.

Tom Waterhouse, Managing Director for Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire, said: “Thanks to the Whitehaven Male Voice Choir for helping to brighten up our passengers’ morning with their wonderful singing. 

“You can never have too much festive spirit and the choir certainly supplied plenty of it. We’re delighted that we’re able to support them.”

It was the latest on-board entertainment laid on by Stagecoach Cumbria, following Kendal comedian Pete Otway performing on services in and around Lancaster to mark Catch the Bus Month and World Car Free Day in September.