STAGECOACH has renamed one of its buses in honour of Teignbridge football hero Ollie Watkins to celebrate England reaching the knockout stages of the World Cup.

In a nod to his local roots and the service that connects many of the communities where his journey began, the Service 2 bus has been renamed “Watkins Way: From Newton Abbot 2 the World Cup”, celebrating the route from Newton Abbot to Exeter and back again.

The Service 2 operates between Newton Abbot, Bishopsteignton, Teignmouth, Dawlish, Starcross, Exminster and Exeter City Centre, forming a key transport artery through South Devon.

The route is used daily by students, commuters, and residents travelling between coastal towns and Exeter, reflecting the same communities that helped shape Watkins’ early footballing journey.

Professional footballer Watkins plays as a forward for the national team and Premier League side Aston Villa.

Born in Torquay in 1995, he grew up in nearby Newton Abbot and began his footballing journey representing grassroots sides including Newton Town and Buckland Athletic before progressing through the academy system at Exeter City.

Before becoming an international striker, Watkins spent over a decade developing his game locally, ultimately establishing himself at the highest level of the English game.

To mark England’s progression to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup, Stagecoach South West has rebranded the Service 2 vehicle as a tribute to local pride and national success.

Peter Knight, Managing Director of Stagecoach West, said: ‘We’re delighted to celebrate England’s success in the World Cup and to honour one of our region’s most inspiring sporting figures.

‘Ollie Watkins’ journey from grassroots football in Devon to the international stage is exactly the kind of story that resonates across our communities.

‘Watkins Way: From Newton Abbot 2 the World Cup’ reflects his personal journey and the everyday routes that connect the places where that journey began.’

The bus operates on the Service 2 route across South Devon, serving communities along the Teign Estuary and into Exeter.