Bristol, Bath and the West

First ‘Superstars covered in the local press.

The Bristol Evening Posts Transport Correspondent helps First promote ‘Superstars and ‘Driver of the Year in the paper today and he encouraged ‘Bristolians to help First search for ‘Superstars.

Junes Superstar for First Bristol is Stephen Caswell. He has been with the company for 37 years, is the most senior driver at Muller Road and is also a shop steward. Steves work colleague and good friend Chris Goodfield sadly passed away suddenly in May and Steve has been helping his family cope with his death. Steve is a very keen gardener and bird watcher. He is highly respected by his colleagues and he helps new Polish drivers settle in to the job. A work colleague who receives £25 worth of shopping vouchers nominated Steve.

Ronaldo Vergara is the June Superstar for First Somerset and Avon. Originally from the Phillipines and has worked for the company for four years and he is based at the Yeovil depot. Hes described by work colleagues as placid but friendly and a guy who just gets on with the job.

A customer who said he is always smiling and welcomes you in all weathers nominated Ronaldo. They will receive a months free travel just for nominating.

Superstars co-coordinator Rachael Hicks says ‘ Here at First we know that there are people in this company who are doing great work, day in day out. This will enable us to recognise those people and reward them appropriately. There is a reward of a free months travel for customers who would like to praise any of our staff from drivers, to administrative staff and other frontline personnel. We also give staff the chance to nominate so that we make sure that everyone has a chance of winning the monthly prize of £400 in shopping vouchers for First Bristol and First Somerset & Avon. We urge people to take part in this exciting scheme.

Driver Excellence recognised by First in Bristol and First Somerset & Avon

Sarah Mason from Firsts Hengrove Depot in Bristol who has been with First for over 20 years and Dave Mason from Weston-super-Mare for more than 15 years, have each won a place in the final of the UK Bus Driver of the Year Competition 2007 for driver excellence. They will join 400 other competitors from across the UK at the national final to be held in Blackpool in December.

This year, the competition was fierce - up to 40 drivers from the local area entered and the judging criteria was as tough as ever. Drivers have to be accident free for at least 1 year to be eligible to enter. Entrants are examined on their driving skills with a series of road observations covering all aspects of driving and there is a theory test.

Steve Perris, Driving Examiner says ‘Its been very pleasing this year, particularly the response from experienced drivers working for First. There was a great deal of enthusiasm to the competition and many people are eager to enter again next year. This is a really good example of how our drivers take pride in their work and fulfill potential goals and ambitions.

Tony Anthistle, Managing Director of First Bristol, Somerset & Avon says "We are extremely pleased to be putting forward two winners from the Bristol and Somerset and Avon Operating Companies. There are drivers working for this company who deserve this kind of recognition and I am personally delighted that they will be representing all of the staff and flying the flag for all of us here working for First Bristol and First Somerset & Avon. I would like to extend my congratulations not only to the winners but also the runners up and to everyone that made the effort to take part in this well-organised event.



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