Strong national finish for Whippet driver at Bus Driver of the Year competition

Whippet driver James Abthorpe has achieved an impressive 14th place finish out of 104 competitors at this year's prestigious UK Bus Driver of the Year competition.

Held in Blackpool on Sunday 6 September, the annual event brings together some of the UK's most skilled bus drivers to compete for national honours. Entrants are assessed through a rigorous theory examination alongside a series of demanding practical driving challenges designed to test precision, vehicle control, safety awareness and professional driving skills.

James, who drives services across Whippet's Cambridgeshire network and is also one of the specialist safety drivers on the innovative Connector autonomous bus project, performed strongly throughout the competition against drivers from operators across the UK.

Speaking after the event, James Abthorpe said:

"It was a great experience to take part and compete alongside so many talented drivers from across the country. I was pleased with how I performed and grateful for all the support I've received from colleagues at Whippet. There are some exceptionally skilled drivers in the industry, so to finish where I did was a really nice bonus."

Ed Cameron, Managing Director of Whippet, said:

"We're incredibly proud of James and his performance in a competition that attracts the very best bus drivers in the country. To finish 14th out of more than 100 competitors is a fantastic achievement and reflects the professionalism, skill and dedication he brings to his role every day.

"James approached the competition with his usual humility and professionalism, and he represented Whippet brilliantly throughout. The result is also a credit to the high standards demonstrated by our entire driving team, who work hard to deliver safe and reliable services for our customers."

The UK Bus Driver of the Year competition has been recognising driving excellence for decades and is widely regarded as the industry's leading skills competition.

Everyone at Whippet congratulates James on his achievement and the excellent way he represented both the company and Cambridgeshire on the national stage.