A pair of Medway-based coach drivers, who served in Gurkha units in war zones around the world, are backing National Express’s renewed support for the armed forces.

Lok and Amir Gurung, who were part of Royal Gurkha Rifles, are encouraging those who are leaving the military to consider a career with National Express after the company renewed its pledge to support the armed forces for another five years.

National Express’s coach division signed the covenant in 2013 with pledges such as guaranteed interviews for driving roles, discounted coach travel for the armed forces and additional leave for reservists.

Now the company has extended this promise with new pledges which now cover both the UK coach and bus businesses.

Lok, who lives in Gillingham, joined the Gurkhas in 1993 and served for 19 years. He now drives commuters into London on the Gillingham-based the Kings Ferry’s commuter services. Amir, who also lives in Gillingham, left the forces in June 2015 after more than 18 years service and joined the Kings Ferry the following year.

Both Lok and Amir are encouraging those who are leaving leaving the forces to consider a career with the company. Lok said: “When we left the army the driving skills we gained meant we were valuable to the company.”

Amir added: “Those leaving the forces should look at the job roles available at National Express as you will be guaranteed an interview, which gives you a fighting chance of landing a job.”

Visit www.nationalexpress.jobs/jobs for vacancy details.