The Bus Driver of the Year (BDoY) National Final for 2023 has opened to entries from operators at the same time that organisers confirmed the date and location of the event. It will be held on Sunday 3 September, once again based at The Imperial Hotel in Blackpool.
In addition, two newcomers have been welcomed to the organising team. First Cymru Recruitment and Training Manager Amanda Thompson has been appointed a BDoY Director, succeeding Brian Constable. Mr Constable has stepped down after 35 years’ involvement, latterly as Vice President.
Also joining is Traffic Commissioner for the North West of England Gerallt Evans. He will work with the organisers in a support and advisory capacity. “The Traffic Commissioners are pleased to be able to recognise and celebrate the good practice of Britain’s bus drivers,” says Mr Evans.
“Bus drivers provide a vital service for a significant part of the population, but often seem overlooked. These awards showcase the important role they play.”
Operators wishing to enter this year’s BDoY competition have been invited to do so online. Presently they need only decide upon the number of contestants they wish to put forward, and pay the entry fee. In return, they will receive an information pack to enable the selection of their drivers.
A spokesperson for BDoY says that “high demand” is expected for the 2023 contest after a successful return in 2022, when Stagecoach South Wales man Michael Evans claimed the coveted Bus Driver of the Year title in his first year of entry. He has underlined the good atmosphere that surrounds the event and the opportunity to mingle with peers from other businesses.
Entries must be received by organisers by mid-May. It is necessary for participating bus drivers to work at least three full shifts per week to qualify, the organisers have clarified. They add that places in the National Final are limited.
