Ipswich Bus Corporation has hired a new driver from Asia as part of its diversity drive.

The unnamed apprentice from North Korea was shown off to reporters yesterday at the wheel of the Number 48, which serves the busy East Ipswich to town centre route.

IBC HR manager Bjorn Scania said: “We pride ourselves in employing people from across society.

“Our latest driver started with us this week and is very happy in his job.”

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The new driver, who asked not to be named, said: “I love buses. I drive all day and take happy people to their homes.

“My country has buses, too. I am learning how Ipswich Bus Corporation has become so efficient and then I will take my new skills and knowledge and apply them at home.

“We can then take even more people from their homes to the fields and factories.”

International diplomatic affairs spokesperson Lorraine Fisher, 34, said: “This is an excellent initiative from Ipswich Bus Corporation.

“We have helped the driver adjust to life in Ipswich. He says everything is exciting, apart from the local football team.”