Press releases

Bus driver Paul Cleaver from Arriva’s Wakefield depot beat off fierce competition at the 41st national final of the prestigious Bus Driver of the Year contest at Blackpool on Sunday (9th September) to win the highly-coveted title of UK Bus Driver of the Year 2007.

One of 127 drivers taking part who represented bus companies from around the UK, he successfully completed the driving course and theory test with less penalty points than any of the other drivers.

Paul Cleaver qualified for the final at a local event held at Elland Road (Leeds) in June, at which drivers from various Arriva Yorkshire depots were put through their paces to find the top three who would go to the national final.

Paul Cleaver also took home the award for best newcomer to the competition and best Arriva driver.

The contest allows drivers to demonstrate their professional skills in a competitive environment and the Bus Driver of the Year title is much sought after.

Arriva Yorkshire’s operations director, Paul Adcock, said “We are absolutely delighted for Paul, the company is very proud of his win. And to think he was a newcomer to the competition, it’s fantastic! He is a real credit to the company.”

Paul Cleaver, Bus Driver of The Year 2007, said ““First of all, they announced me as the best newcomer and then as the best Arriva driver, but I couldn’t believe I’d come top overall. I was shaking all over as I received the trophy. It’s going to take a few days for the news to sink in. ”

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