Trentbarton named James Davidson (pictured, centre) as Driver of the Year at its Really Good Service Awards in Derby on 3 April.
Mr Davidson, 26, is a team leader at the operator’s depot in that city and works on the Red Arrow and Comet brands. He was recognised after achieving a perfect score from a mystery customer judge and, like other shortlisted finalists, having won Driver of the Month over the past year, scoring highest out of 200 mystery audits.
The prize for Mr Davidson was made up of £1,500 to spend on a holiday, an extra day’s leave every year, and a large ceremonial cup.
Driver of the Year was one category at Trentbarton’s awards evening, which was hosted by radio presenter Andy Miller and had as guest speaker former Communard Reverend Richard Coles (pictured, right).
The operator brought together over 100 of its staff members, its senior management team and local stakeholders at the Museum of Making.
Other winners were:
- Hero of the Year: Driver Lewis Eaton, who received multiple customer commendations and was also recognised for helping an elderly customer and supporting a customer in a vulnerable position
- Colleague Choice: Lead driver Patrick Dunne, who received “countless” nominations from co-workers highlighting his excellent communications with drivers when on the road
- Customer Choice: Driver Tina Gurpinar, who gained most votes from customers thanks to her positive attitude, caring nature and ability to welcome all passengers
- Unsung Hero: Stock Controller Glen Gregory, who the operator says is critical to its ability to function
- Engineering Team Member of the Year: Carl Pilkington
- Apprentice of the Year: Laura Pike-Smart, who was identified by judges as having significantly grown her knowledge. She took up an engineering apprenticeship in 2024 after 13 years with the operator, latterly as a Service Delivery Manager
- Brand of the Year: The Threes, recognising the drivers, engineers and team leaders that deliver the service.
Speaking about the presentation, Trentbarton Managing Director Tom Morgan (pictured, left) says: “This is one of my favourite nights of the year, celebrating the outstanding achievements of our wonderful team.
“What is particularly good is how we get to welcome and acknowledge the support of our colleagues’ friends, family and loved ones – their support and understanding goes such a long way.”
