A Birmingham bus driver has been named the UK’s best in this year’s UK Bus Driver of the Year competition.

Lee Grantham from National Express West Midlands’ Acocks Green depot secured the title after competing against more than 100 other finalists. 

35-year-old Lee has been with the company for seven years and regularly drives the number 72 and 73 routes. 

The UK Bus Driver of the Year final took place in Blackpool on 3 September, where the competition has been held since 1982. Lee took part in a series of driving challenges with others from bus companies across the country, including colleagues from two of National Express West Midlands’ other depots.

Lee Grantham, said: 

“I am on cloud nine to win the Bus Driver of the Year 2023 national finals - it is a dream come true. My ambition in life is to deliver 100% all of the time. 

“Winning would not have been possible without the time and effort put in by National Express West Midlands and of course the training school who do an amazing job.

“I’m honoured to bring the winning trophy back to the West Midlands and especially my home garage of Acocks Green.”

Jenny Tocknell, UK Head of Engineering and Operational Safety at National Express, said: 

“National Express West Midlands drivers are some of the best in the country. They play a vital role in helping our customers get to where they need to be, with the highest standards of skill and service. 

“We are really proud that we had three brilliant drivers taking part in this year’s UK final and would like to congratulate Lee for such a brilliant effort on the day to secure the top spot - it’s very well deserved!”

National Express West Midlands has also recently celebrated its 130 Master Drivers and 15 Elite Drivers at the company. 

The company’s award-winning Master Driver programme recognises excellence in driving, measuring the performance of drivers and identifying those with an impeccable safety record and outstanding driving and customer service skills. 

Master Drivers must have achieved a grade A on their National Express West Midlands’ driver profile, 100% in their most recent driving evaluation, completed the Institute of Advanced Motorists course, and have a clear record. 

This year the company introduced a new tier called Elite Drivers, celebrating those Master Drivers who demonstrate high performance year after year. 

A video with some of National Express West Midlands’ Master Drivers drivers talking about what they enjoy most about being a bus driver is available to view here.

To find out more about careers with National Express West Midlands visit careers.nationalexpress.com.