A bus driver from our Sutton depot has won a top award after impressing judges with his helpful attitude and infectious smile.
Kevin Wood was named our latest Driver of the Year at a special gala dinner featuring TV legend and star of The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson, at the Crowne Plaza in Nottingham.
Pictured: Kevin Wood receiving his award from Ricky Tomlinson
In addition to a trophy, the popular driver, who works on the 141 service between Mansfield and Nottingham, also received holiday vouchers worth £1,000.
To win the award, Kevin recorded consistently high scores from 'mystery customers' who commented on his cheerful and helpful approach, his infectious smile and smooth driving style.
Jeff Counsell, managing director, commented: "Kevin is a very worthy winner of the award. He has worked for us since 2003 and in the last 12 months his dedication to customer service really stood out.
"Now in their ninth year, our Really Good Service Awards celebrate the efforts of staff who go the extra mile to please customers. Once again they have proved a huge success, showcasing excellence across the company."
During the awards dinner a number of other accolades were handed out, including a new Customer Choice Award. The first winner to be nominated by customers was Allan Gilmour from Calverton who works on the calverton connection service. Customers who voted for Allan said that he is always cheerful, very polite and never fails to make them smile.
Pictured: Allan Gilmour receiving his award Ricky Tomlinson and Jeff Counsell, Managing Director
Allan was joined on the winners list by Neil Brown from Glossop, who picked up an Outstanding Achievement Award. During a severe winter snowstorm, Neil made sure all the passengers on the skyline 199 bus he was driving between Manchester Airport and Buxton got home safely, even dropping off one customer at their door in his own car.
Pictured: Neil Brown receiving his award.
Other winners included Apprentice of the Year Ryan Smith, who lives in Bulwell and works at Manvers Street Garage in Nottingham and David Melady from Cotgrave who was named Most Improved Driver.
A further Brand of the Year Award was presented to the team behind the indigo service, based at Nottingham depot. According to judges the service has excelled in terms of performance, growth in customer numbers, quality of customer service and overall presentation.
Jeff added: "All the award winners and runners-up deserve praise for demonstrating dedication and commitment to customer care, often in difficult circumstances. This approach is typical of the whole trent barton team."