Cheers drive
"Cheers drive" is what Bristolians say to the bus driver as they get off - a thank-you that is part of the city's everyday etiquette. "Drive" is short for driver, and "cheers" is the informal British thank-you.
In practice
Thanking the bus driver is common across much of Britain outside London, but "cheers drive" is so closely linked with Bristol that it appears on mugs, T-shirts and murals, and has been used in local campaigns. Passengers usually say it from the middle or the back of the bus as they leave, whether or not the driver hears.
Why it matters to newcomers
Saying "cheers drive" - or simply "thank you" - when you leave the bus is the easiest way to fit in. Not saying anything is not rude, but you will notice that almost everyone does.
Related
- Bristolian - the speech the phrase comes from
- Gert lush - more everyday Bristol words
- Harbourside - where many bus routes into the centre end
Source: Wiktionary: Bristolian.