Winners - Microlise Driver of the Year Awards

Previous Winners

2023

Overall Winner

Keith Ashworth, Booker Group

The judges were unanimous that this experienced professional driver should be awarded the title as the overall ‘Microlise Driver of the Year 2023’.

Keith Ashworth had been a loyal and dedicated employee at Booker for over 25 years. Keith’s manager told us that he deserved to win because in addition to being a true gentleman he simply does a perfect job – no tacho infringements, no accidents, no sick days.

Keith also mentors other drivers and his exemplary customer service skills result in him constantly being in demand due to the way he works with staff and customers. When awarded the trophy Keith was about to retire after driving for over 40 years so this award was also recognition of a great life spent behind the wheel.

Medium Distance Winner

Christopher Beswick, GIST

A professional driver for 30+ years, Chris clearly loves his job at Gist and has been with the company for over 10 years. His manager told us that in addition to achieving outstanding driving performance he is a model employee who is always happy to help if he can. He proactively looks to make improvements and will always help less experience drivers.

Long Distance Winner

Keith Ashworth, Booker

Keith’s exemplary performance throughout 2022 was not a one off, he had won the Booker driver of the year on three occasions. His manager told us that he has an exemplary work ethic and has never had a sick day or tacho infringement. A HGV driver for over 40 years Keith also goes out of his way to help younger or less experienced drivers.

Compliant Driver Winner

Andis Rudulis, White Logistics

Andis only gained his class 1 license in January 2017 and is now qualified and competent in a wide range of driving skills. He delivered a fully compliant performance throughout 2022, due to his commitment to the job and hard work. He promotes good driving techniques and is always happy to help and coach other drivers to achieve their best.

Extra Mile Winner

Gareth Bell, Boughey Distribution

Nothing is too much trouble for Gareth who always completes his assignments with pride and passion. His attitude and work ethic make him a model employee but he is also committed to the industry and spreading awareness to help young people. He took a truck into the local school to educate children on general safety around large vehicles such as blind spots.

Lifetime Achievement Winner

Arthur Black, Co-Op

Arthur has been a professional driver for 50+ years and has witnessed a lot of change. Described as a model employee who never causes any problems, does not have accidents or sick days and always goes the extra mile, Arthur was also applauded for his work ethic. He is always happy to be at work and his demeanour has a positive effect on those around him especially the new drivers who he mentors.

Most Improved Driver Winner

Marvin Mandofa, Waitrose

Marvin started his 9-year career at Waitrose as a store manager before joining the distribution team. He was the first person in the depot to achieve a distinction in the apprenticeship scheme and has been a role model to others considering making the change in career. He has worked hard to achieve a good driving standard and also uses the customer service skills gained in retail to good use.

Young Driver Winner

Benjamin David Lumley, Mediq

Originally a warehouse team leader, Ben made the transition to a confident driver in lass than a year. Hi manager told us that he not phased by any task assigned to him and he willingly undertakes everything assigned, he is supportive of his colleagues and works extremely well as part of a team. He listens to the feedback he is given and adapts himself to meet the needs of the business without question, he is always polite and courteous to others and a great ambassador for the driver colleagues within the Bunzl Healthcare teams throughout the United Kingdom.

Driver Hero Winner

Simon Poll, Stobarts

Simon is a multi-trained driver and driver mentor, a key member of the team who will always step in where needed. A serious traffic collision occurred in front of Simon’s truck on a busy carriageway. His quick thinking and bravery had a lasting impact on those involved and prevented any further incidents. His actions gained him a commendation from the Leicestershire Police force in recognition of his bravery

Driver Excellence Winner

Yodel

Short Distance Winner

Ian Simpson, Eddie Stobart

Based at the Carlisle depot, Ian has driven for Stobarts for over 32 years. He had an exceptional driving record and was described by his manager as the ‘perfect employee’ who wore his Stobart uniform with pride. In addition to having exceptional driving standards and an exemplary performance, the judges heard how he was also well liked and respected member of the team .

2022