Prosthetic limbs, a living room carpet and even a box of maggots – these are just some of the wide variety of weird and wonderful items that lost property expert Jean Scott has sought to reunite with their owners after they’ve been behind on First Glasgow buses.

With around 40,000 pieces of lost items left on First’s 900-strong fleet, from hats and umbrellas to even trumpets and false teeth, Jean looks after more than just lost bus tickets and wallets.

Now the 59-year-old’s tireless efforts have been recognised by the transport industry with confirmation that she’s been shortlisted in the ‘Unsung Hero’ category at the UK Bus Awards – known as the ‘Oscars’ of the bus industry.

Nominations were announced at an event at the Wythall Transport Museum in Worcestershire ahead of the UK Bus Awards glittering presentation ceremony on 24 November.

In total, 97 finalists have been selected from more than 250 entries, across 19 categories.

The event aims to puts the spotlight on the outstanding achievements, inspiring talent and tireless dedication of the people and companies involved in running bus services.

With over 37 years in the bus industry, Jean is rated by colleagues and customers as having an unwavering commitment to delivery excellent customer service.

Earlier this year, Jean starred in a television documentary which offered an exclusive look behind the scenes of First Glasgow’s Lost Property Office. It led to Jean being recognised at the Scottish Transport Awards with a special commendation for her efforts.

Jean said: “You wouldn’t believe what I’ve seen over the years, in the last week we’ve taken in a hamster’s cage and two pairs of false teeth. I remember when I opened a fisherman’s bag and discovered tubs of worms which I later released in the park. Once we even managed to return a lost suitcase to Australia.

“Being nominated for this award is very humbling, I just love doing my job and I get great satisfaction returning as many lost belongings to our customers as I possibly can.”

Fiona Kerr, managing director for First Glasgow, said: “We're delighted that Jean has been short-listed for this prestigious award. It’s clear recognition of her hard work and dedication to reuniting our customers with their lost property items.

“When you carry in excess of two million passenger trips around Greater Glasgow every week it’s inevitable that people will leave behind precious belongings. And if they do, they’ll be in safe hands with Jean who goes above and beyond on a daily basis to reunite people with their items.

“I’m really pleased to see Jean being recognised for her efforts, which we know are greatly appreciated by many of our customers.”

As Scotland’s biggest bus operator, First Glasgow run services on more than 80 different routes, moving in excess of 107million customers each year.