Sunderland bus driver crowned runner-up in UK’s Bus Driver of the Year competition

Go North East is celebrating after Sunderland-based bus driver Nick Perry drove his way to second place at the prestigious National Bus Driver of the Year competition in Blackpool.

Nick, who has been with the company for seven years, impressed judges with his exceptional driving skills, taking runner-up in an incredibly tight contest that went right to the wire with the eventual winner. His performance also made him the highest-ranking driver across the Go-Ahead Group and winner of the coveted ROSCO (Road Operators’ Safety Council) Award, along with £3,000 in prize money.

The national final brought together 100 of the country’s top bus drivers, each having qualified through rigorous regional heats. Nick’s preparation included specialist training with Go North East instructors Tracy Hannington and Peter Sinclair, helping him showcase the very best of his knowledge and professionalism.

It was also a strong day for fellow Go North East driver James Fawkes, from Riverside depot, who secured an impressive 12th place overall. Out of the 20 Go-Ahead drivers who took part, Nick finished top, and James ranked fourth.

Speaking after the event, Nick said: “To be named one of the very best drivers in the country feels amazing and I’m proud to bring this trophy home to the North East. I couldn’t have done it without the brilliant support and training from my colleagues, and I’m really proud of what we achieved.”

Ben Maxfield, Business Director at Go North East, added: “Nick’s achievement is outstanding - to come second in such a prestigious national competition shows the incredible skill and professionalism we have here in the North East. He’s a fantastic ambassador for Go North East, and it’s equally great to see James finish so strongly too. Two of our drivers being ranked among the very best in the country is something we can all take pride in, and I’d also like to recognise the training team who helped them shine on the national stage.”

The annual National Bus Driver of the Year competition celebrates the skill and professionalism of bus drivers across the country.

If you’d like to join Nick, James and the Go North East team, the company is currently recruiting for new drivers: www.gonortheast.co.uk/careers.