Stagecoach South Wales driver crowned ‘Bus Driver of the Year

Stagecoach South Wales bus driver Michael Evans has been awarded ‘UK Bus Driver of the Year’ in this year’s Bus Driver of the Year National Final. Michael, who works at Stagecoach Porth depot beat off stiff competition from bus drivers right across the country.

Michael who lives in the Rhondda and is a grandad of six joined Stagecoach in 2018, he wanted a change of career after working as a car salesman for 35 years. Since joining the company, Michael has worked hard to develop his skills and further his career. In 2021, he successfully completed a driver mentoring course at Blackwood depot and after discussing his career aspirations with the Operations team at Porth depot, he entered the ‘Bus Driver of the Year’ 2022 competition.

Michael was successful in the first leg of the competition, winning £200 and announced as a finalist for Wales in the main competition which took place in Blackpool on 2nd October 2022.

As part of the competition, the drivers must complete a theory and driving test. The driving test was along Blackpool promenade and points were awarded for provision, accuracy, and a smooth and safe drive.

The awards attracted nominations from 89 bus drivers across the country representing 35 large and small bus operators. Michael competed his tests with the highest score amongst the finalists and was crowned ‘UK Bus Driver of the Year’ at yesterday’s event.

Michael was presented with a sum of £500 and a trophy by Tom Cunnington, Head of Business Development at Transport for London at the 54th National Bus Driver of the Year Final.

Michael said:

“I was honoured and surprised to be crowned bus driver of the year. I never expected to win as there were so many talented drivers in the competition. My wife came along to the final with me and is very proud of my achievement. I would really recommend the competition to bus drivers across the UK, it’s a wonderful experience and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed taking part”.

Mark Tunstall, Head of Operations, Stagecoach South Wales said:

“We’re thrilled that Michael has been crowned as ‘UK Bus Driver of the Year’ 2022. It’s such a fantastic achievement and reinforces how hard our teams work to deliver the best possible service for our customers and communities. Being recognised in the Bus Driver of the Year national final is a fitting celebration of his achievements, and our congratulations go to all of the drivers named in this year’s awards.”

Since entering the competition, Michael has been successful in his application for a Relief Driving Instructor job in Porth depot and is currently undergoing training for this role. For more information about the awards, visit www.bdoy.co.uk.