Dundee wins place at UK 'Bus driver of the year' competition

Two Dundee bus drivers have been given the green light to compete in the UK ''Bus driver of the year' competition.

National Express drivers Jim Tyrell and Craig Furley sped into first and second place in the Dundee regional heats after completing a series of challenging tests. They beat competition from numerous bus drivers across Dundee in a series of tests which measured the quality of manoeuvring, braking, customer care and vehicle maintenance. Jim and Craig will now progress to the UK final at Blackpool this September, where it's hoped they'll scoop the coveted prize for Dundee.

Lawrence Davie, Director National Express Dundee, commented: "We have an excellent standard of bus driving in Dundee and our drivers regularly perform well under difficult driving conditions. I have been really impressed by the regional heats and am confident our two finalists will do us proud in the national final." 48 year old Jim Tyrell, regularly drives on Broughty Ferry routes for National Express Dundee. 41 year old Craig Furey, regularly drives on St Mary's routes for National Express Dundee. Neither have competed in the contest before and are they are looking forward to the challenge.

After a presentation of the trophy by Lawrence Davie, the participants were treated to lunch at the Apex to congratulate them on their efforts.

Published 15th July 2010