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Victory at first attempt for Arriva London Bus Driver of the Year

Monika Siemienczuk from Arriva London's Stamford Hill Garage swept away with the winners trophy at their recent bus driver of the year event, held on Saturday June 7 at Beddington Farm garage.

With only two years driving experience, it was the first time Monika had entered the competition, which attracts over 100 entrants from across 15 Arriva London garages.

Monika, who used to be a teacher in Poland, said: "I didn't think I had done well at all because I was aware that I had made some mistakes. I'm really surprised, but delighted. I'm now looking forward to going to the UK bus driver of the year finals in Blackpool".

The competition which starts in March invites drivers to apply to be entered for the coveted title. Following their application a covert driving observation is made and drivers are scored on their driving ability and customer service skills.

Following the observations the top 40 drivers are invited to the final. There they undergo a rigorous programme of tricky driving manoeuvres and a written driver's knowledge test, which includes a section on the Highway Code. Penalty points are awarded for any mistakes that are made.

With only 590 penalty points, Monika beat her nearest rival by more than 100 points. Along with the title of "Arriva London Bus Driver of The Year" Monika received a trophy, a cheque for £350 and a £250 voucher for a weekend away.

The runner up was Brian Atrill from Croydon garage who scored 715 penalty points.

Published: Wed 11 Jun 2008Modified: Mon 4 Aug 2008Archived: Wed 2 Jul 2008

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