Operators are being invited to reward their top drivers with participation in the long-running safety and skills competition which is set to return for 2022
After two years of disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic the Bus Driver of the Year (BDoY) competition looks set to return in 2022, and entries for the National Final are now open.
The annual road safety and skills test event has the support of all the major bus groups, and the National Final in Blackpool offers an opportunity for operators to present their best drivers to the public and to afford them the chance to win valuable prizes and claim the accolade of ‘UK Bus Driver of the Year.’ It is hoped that the 2022 National Final will mark a return to normality, and also enable operators to reward staff who have shown commendable levels of professionalism at a time of extreme difficulties.
At this stage operators need only decide the number of drivers they wish to participate and are invited to use the BDoY website to enter online. They will then receive details of the forthcoming competition, which culminates with the National Final weekend, which is scheduled to take place in Blackpool over the weekend of 17 and 18 September.
BDoY says that ideally, though not essentially, the selection process should incorporate on and off-road driving tests. However, companies are urged not to delay in submitting their applications, which must in any event be received no later than mid-May, to allow organisers to properly assess the level of interest in the competition, which has attracted over 100 entrants in previous years, and make arrangements accordingly.
BDoY Chairman Joe Mackie said: “Among the many benefits for operators taking part is that it helps raise driving standards and encourages pride in bus driving as a career.”
