'Bus-mad' Sheffield schoolboy challenged to travel every route

Nathaniel hopes to complete the challenge by the end of the year

A "bus-mad" schoolboy has embarked on a challenge to travel on every bus and tram route in Sheffield.

Nine-year-old Nathaniel was given the task by his mum Faith due to his fascination with public transport.

Over the next few months Nathaniel, who dreams of being a bus driver, will attempt to travel on more than 80 bus and tram service variations.

According to his mum, he set off on his first journey on 5 January for a visit to the National Videogame Museum.

Nathaniel, who records the time and cost of the rides, and spends his journeys researching the destinations, said it was a great way to get to know the city he lives in better.

Nathaniel aims to travel on every bus route around Sheffield

Mum Faith told BBC Radio Sheffield: "I think he's always loved public transport, it's the way it all works and the routes and the connections you can get.

"Ever since he was about three when the tram-trains started, we needed to go and spend the day out to ride on them to see how they operate."

Nathaniel, who usually undertakes his journeys with his mum or grandmother, said his favourite route was through the Peak District because of the scenery.

Faith said: "I didn't want to sit on a bus all day for no purpose so we've given him the challenge that he has to research the area he's going to.

"He has to have an errand or a purpose so he can find out a bit more about Sheffield as he goes round the city."

Nathaniel hopes to complete the challenge by the end of the year.

A spokesperson for First Bus in Sheffield said: "What a fantastic challenge to set himself, that accounts for a lot of buses and trams to ride on over the year.

"When he has completed his challenge, we will invite him to Olive Grove bus depot for a tour of the site and to sit in the driving seat to experience what it is like being a bus driver in Sheffield."

A spokesperson for Stagecoach said the firm was "delighted" to hear about Nathaniel's challenge.

They added: "Our drivers are excited to welcome him onboard and we wish him pleasant journeys while exploring our Sheffield network."

According to the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, there are 81 service variations (grouped into 44 routes) and three coloured tram routes, plus the tram-train.