Minibus Driver

When the residents of Red Deer Village, a five star retirement village at Stepps, are in need of some sea air, they call upon Alistair McKinnon, the park’s in house mini bus driver!

Alistair’s Background

Alistair has worked at Red Deer for the past three years. He lives in Hogganfield, a short drive from the village. Buses are in his DNA, having started as a conductor in 1979, and then becoming a bus driver for Glasgow City Council.

Alistair’s Words

“I really enjoy this job,” he said. “The residents and I have lots of interaction between us. Many of them I have now known since I started this job, but there are always new faces coming along to the park for me to welcome.”

 “I believe we are providing a really good service for our residents at Red Deer Village. It’s fantastic that the park owners have decided to have their own mini bus and driver. It’s going the extra mile for the over 50s who come and downsize here,” said Alistair.

As Alistair pointed out, many residents do have their own cars. But there are days they might not want to drive, and can have a relaxing day out in good company.

“That’s where I come in, to let them sit back whilst I do the driving,” he said. “We regularly go down the coast to Ayr and Largs, for a day at the seaside. Other times, it’s just to the local shops, again for convenience, but these trips can be just as important to the residents. They can go the with their friends. I will drop them off and wait whilst they do their shopping and then bring them back.”

Alistair’s Interests

“My favourite part of Scotland to visit is Glencoe, but perhaps it’s a bit too far to go there and back in one day!”

 In his spare time Alistair enjoys mountain biking and spending time with his grand daughter, Chloe. “In many ways, this is my dream job, before I perhaps consider retiring myself,” said Alistair. “I can certainly see the attraction of a park like Red Deer. It’s the little things that set it apart, and make the residents feel really valued. It’s a stress free life and a very sociable one too, with our community hub, and other amenities.”

Director’s Words

 Said park owner John Hendry, who runs Red Deer Village with his brother Ivan; “Alistair and his bus are very well-known in the area. He is always pleasant, always punctual, and makes an effort to get to know everyone.”

Alistair’s Award

 Alistair is one of Red Deer’s Exceptional Service Award Winners. This is an award given out by the BH&HPA to recognise staff that go the extra mile.  (British Holiday & Home Park Association)

Known as the Oscars of the park industry, the awards were introduced so that owners could directly nominate and reward the staff they wanted to receive official industry recognition.

 “We are very lucky to have staff we can rely upon as the park grows, and Alistair never lets us down,” said John.

Red Deer Village

 Red Deer Village has recently released a third phase of industry leading, fully furnished and decorated park homes. Prices are from £109,950, and part exchange is available. Further details can be found on our website!