SOME people dream of meeting Robbie Williams, others long to win the Lottery but John Mahon's life-long ambition was to drive a double-decker bus.

And his dream was finally fulfilled after his wife Amanda organised a surprise drive around Yellow Buses' Mallard Road depot in Bournemouth.

The surprise was part of John's 60th birthday treat and it didn't take the retired firefighter long to get to grips with the huge vehicle after years of driving fire engines in and out of Lyndhurst station.

Amanda, 31, of Dearing Close in Lyndhurst, said: "When we first got together nine or 10 years ago he mentioned that was what he wanted to do.

"I tried to do it for his 55th birthday but came against a brick wall.

"But when I called Yellow Buses this year they were really helpful.

"I asked him what the big fascination was with driving a double-decker bus and he said he has driven fire engines and buses are just bigger and better."

John looked in his element when he got behind the wheel of the huge vehicle and took it for a spin around the depot circuit.

On board his driving skills were being scrutinised by Yellow Buses' senior driving instructor Dave Moore.

"I know quite quickly whether someone had driven before and John is very good.

"He steers well and he is putting the vehicle in the right places for the corners.

"He is very good - I wouldn't hesitate having him in my driving school if he wanted to be a bus driver."

John, now a carpenter, said: "I have really wanted to drive a bus because of its sheer length. It is longer than a fire engine but handles just the same."

Andy Hickisson, operations manager, said: "We are pleased we have been able to help someone's dream come true on this occasion."

John will now receive a certificate to commemorate his drive.