Arriva bus driver wins top industry competition for going extra the extra mile
Arriva Yorkshire is celebrating success after regional bus driver Andrew Sykes won top prizes at the national Bus Driver of the Year Awards 2011.
The 41 year old from Kirklees was placed second in the overall competition and he was also awarded the Giles Fearnley Shield as he swept to victory in the ‘Best Competitor from a depot in England’ category.
Andrew continued to clean up when he was presented with the Arriva Trophy and a cash prize for being crowned ‘Highest-placed Arriva Competitor’ in the competition which took place in Blackpool on Sunday 11 September.
Now in its 45th year, the UK Bus Driver of the Year Competition is widely regarded as the premier skills competition in the bus industry.
The aim of the event is to raise the standard of passenger care and comfort, as well as increase the skills of bus drivers who cover local and inter-city routes.
Colin Newbury, head of operations for Arriva Yorkshire, said: “We are delighted Andrew has been recognised for his excellent bus driving skills in a competition where the standard was exceptionally high. Winning this award has added significance because it was judged by fellow professionals in the industry. Throughout his time with Arriva, Andrew has proved to be a true professional.”