A WIDNES bus driver could soon be crowned one of the best in the UK after being shortlisted as one of Arrival’s regional bus champions.

Dedicated Neil Atherton, 36, has been chosen by passengers for going the extra mile.

He was shortlisted from 300 nominations and is now seeking votes from the public to reach the final of the competition in April.

Eve Marie Ginever, PR and communications manager from Arriva, said: “Our drivers are the heartbeat of our business and they really do care about the customers they serve and communities they are part of.

“We are incredibly proud of how Neil consistently goes that extra mile to ensure excellence on board their buses.

“We would urge anyone wanting to show their support for Neil and take them all the way to the final to go online now and share their thanks for being a true bus champion, through and through.”

The ‘bus champion – driver of the year’ title forms part of Arriva’s annual made a difference awards campaign, a national recognition programme which looks at all elements of the bus company, including engineering, depot management and back office functions.

The top regional drivers voted for by customers will be celebrated at an awards ceremony on April 21 where the overall national bus champion will be announced.

To support Neil, visit arrivabus.co.uk/champions or e-mail buschampions@arriva.co.uk.