Press releases

Managers from Arriva scooped a string of awards for their skills, talent and commitment at the UK’s first set of annual Passenger Transport Management Awards (PTMA).

More than 30 shortlisted managers from across the UK’s bus companies, rail operators and local authorities gathered in London on Friday (July 11) to find out this year’s PTMA winners.  Talented managers from across Arriva’s UK operating businesses took home an impressive five of the 10 awards.  The winners were as follows:

The first annual Lifetime Achievement Award went to Tony Depledge OBE.  Tony has a career in the passenger transport industry which spans almost 40 years, starting as a seasonal tram driver in Blackpool through to his current role as Arriva’s director of transport policy development.

Also rewarded for long and devoted service to the industry in the Unsung Heroes Award was Mike Topping, project manager for Arriva North West and Wales, who has worked in the industry for almost 50 years.  The award was not on the original list of categories but was added to recognise those who work tirelessly, often in the background, giving a lifetime of service throughout their careers.

The prize for Young Passenger Transport Professional, designed specially for managers under 35, was shared between three managers from around the country.  Hard-working James Higlett, assistant engineering manager with Arriva Southern Counties, impressed the judges with his ability and commitment.

The local prize for Industry Ambassador went to Geraint Morgan, community affairs manager for Arriva Trains Wales, for his outstanding energy, enthusiasm and commitment to his role which includes promoting community safety tackling anti-social behaviour. 

Chloe Leach of Arriva Yorkshire was recognised for her clever work in re-launching Arriva’s network of bus services in West Yorkshire, securing the title Marketeer of the Year.  The judges were most impressed with Chloe’s marketing and public relations programme which included persuading Jonathan Ross to present his BBC Radio 2 programme from Arriva’s Wakefield depot.

David Martin, chief executive of Arriva plc, said: "Arriva places great emphasis on developing talent, and that quality has shown through at these awards.  From young managers in their first few years through to those with a lifetime’s experience it’s a real boost to see colleagues recognised by their peers across the industry."

Also recognised for his outstanding work on the Kent Fastrack Bus Rapid Transit system, operated by Arriva, was David George of Kent County Council who took home the title Project Leader of the Year.

The prizes were presented at London’s prestigious Dorchester Hotel by Peter Hendy, the Transport Commissioner for London and Chair of the Commission for Integrated Transport. The ceremony was compered by the BBC southern transport correspondent Paul Clifton.