Drivers, from Peterborough operator, reach national final of bus driver of the year competition
Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire’s largest bus operator has named its two representatives for the national final of the prestigious Bus Driver of the Year competition, after a competitive local heat.
Wendy Searle from Cambridge and Mugur Tambala from Bedford will represent Stagecoach East after outstanding performances at the regional heats. They will now be focusing on their skills and will be required to maintain an exemplary driving record.
Two reserves have also been chosen: Duncan Dunnett from Cambridge and Stephen Weston from Peterborough
Stagecoach East’s two contestants will be put through their paces at the Bus Driver of the Year Finals. The competition consists of a gruelling series of tests including a theory examination and an on-road driving course incorporating precision driving manoeuvres along a specially registered bus route called Middle Walk, which runs along the beautiful Blackpool coastline
Ian de Chastelain, Head of Training at Stagecoach East, said: “I am so proud that Mugur and Wendy will be representing us, they are both excellent driving professionals. They both showcase our outstanding driving standards and company values and so – although the competition will be of the very highest standard – I am sure that they will acquit themselves very well.
“The pressure will always be intense when you are performing difficult and challenging driving manoeuvres with little margin for error under the full glare of the judges. Mugur and Wendy are used to working in a culture at Stagecoach East where the safety of our customers and of other road users is our number one priority. This culture shows not only in the quality of Mugur and Wendy’s professional bus driving, but it will also give them a natural competitive edge in Blackpool at the Final.
“The very best of luck to Mugur and Wendy, I know that you will represent Stagecoach East with pride and distinction!”
-- To find out more about local bus routes and services, and to track your local bus, you can download the Stagecoach Bus App from www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/stagecoachbusapp.