Maxine Duffus: I was Sheffield's first black female bus driver - it opened the door to my dream job

It was quite daunting. I would get a double stare from passengers who probably thought I was too young to be behind the wheel of such a big vehicle. I enjoyed it to a certain degree - but my dream was to open my own boutique. 

I saved money to buy fabric to make dresses. In 1985 I opened Maxine’s of Sheffield at 655 Queens Road. Two years later I moved next door to 653 where I have been ever since.

I have really enjoyed meeting people, especially when three generations come in. I call the shop my third child, but after nearly 40 years that journey is ending.

My last day is July 31 and then I will go mobile, working from a workshop at my home in Walkley. My lease is up and the landlord wants to sell the shop. I’m 62 and it’s a chance for me to ease off.

Sign up today to get all of the latest news headlines from Sheffield and South Yorkshire delivered straight to your inbox, with The Star’s free emails

I don’t feel as though I come to work, I come for fun. I have met so many people it’s untrue. But it can be long hours, sometimes all night. You can’t be workshy and work for yourself or you don’t earn. Sometimes it's about surviving rather than thriving.

My hardest time was in 2012 when the shop burned down in an arson attack. I was uninsured and had to start from scratch.

Alterations are the biggest part of my business, all sorts, from jeans, jackets and sleeves to brides and bridesmaids dresses.

School proms started in the UK about 25 years ago and my daughter Letitia was my first customer, aged 16. Today they are huge, youngsters start looking for a dress in December ahead of prom season in June and July. These days schools will also have a Christmas ball.

Heeley Bottom has changed such a lot. When I came there were five shops doing clothing alterations alone, plus a wool shop, Fletchers bread and banks. Turner Hire is the only one still here. 

People’s buying habits have changed and so many work from home, and now, after 39-and-a-half years, I will too.