IPSWICH-based bus driver Leon Wells has been crowned 'Britain's Best Bus Driver' at the annual Bus Driver of the Year finals held in Blackpool at the weekend.

IPSWICH-based bus driver Leon Wells has been crowned 'Britain's Best Bus Driver' at the annual Bus Driver of the Year finals held in Blackpool at the weekend.

He beat off competition from 123 other professional drivers representing bus companies from across the UK.

He scooped first place at the prestigious event having impressed judges with his exceptional driving skills and exemplary customer service in the line of duty.

He walked away from the competition with £2,000 in prize money and the knowledge that he is the best bus driver in the UK.

He has worked for First Eastern Counties for five years, driving on routes in the Ipswich area and across Suffolk and Norfolk.

Leon, 32, who lives in Ipswich, said: “I am delighted to have won the competition. I love my job as a bus driver; every day is different, but it's the interaction I have with the passengers that makes it all worthwhile - they're great!”

Peter Iddon, managing director of First Eastern Counties Buses, says: “Leon did a tremendous job, showing off his exemplary driving skills and bringing home the coveted Bus Driver of the Year award. He should be very proud of

his achievement; I know I am.”