Lothian crowns Driver of the Year

Lothian has crowned a new Driver of the Year following its annual Bus Driver of the Year final at the Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston on Tuesday (28 May).

Thomas Gilhooley of East Coast Buses took first place overall, with Gary Black and John O’Hara, of Lothian’s Airlink and Longstone teams respectively, making up the podium.

The competition saw 17 finalists from across the Group compete in three challenges: a theory test, a practical road driving test and an obstacle course.

Lothian will now send representatives to the UK Bus Driver of the Year Final in Blackpool later in the year. In 2023, two of the operator’s’ drivers finished in the top three at the competition.

“My fingers are crossed we can bring the UK Driver of the Year title back to Edinburgh this year” – Willie Hamilton, Operations Director for Lothian

Willie Hamilton, Operations Director for Lothian, said: “Our drivers do an incredible job day in, day out delivering for the 2 million customers who choose to travel with us each week.

“Our Bus Driver of the Year event is always a great opportunity to highlight the technical expertise and professionalism of our driving team. This year was no different, with incredible scores posted across the board.

“A huge congratulations goes to Thomas, Gary and John for their efforts on the day. My fingers are crossed we can bring the UK Driver of the Year title back to Edinburgh this year.”

Full list of winners:

1st Place – Thomas Gilhooley (East Coast Buses)

2nd Place – Gary Black (Central)

3rd Place – John O’Hara (Longstone)

Lothian Overall Winner – Gary Black

East Coast Buses Overall Winner – Thomas Gilhooley

Edinburgh Bus Tours Overall Winner – John Rodriguez

Lothian Country Overall Winner – Harvey Stroud

Eve Coaches Overall Winner – Colin Kelly

Garage of the Year – East Coast Buses

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