Drivers at a north-east bus depot have been awarded for setting an example to other motorists.
Stagecoach’s eco-champions have been honoured for efforts to drive economically, with the firm awarding them a trophy in tribute to the scheme’s project manager, Christopher Ball, who died two years ago.
Mr Ball had been working prior to his death to roll out GreenRoad programmes to all Stagecoach drivers in the UK.
The Christopher Ball Memorial Award has since been set up and was this year awarded to drivers in Macduff.
The depot employs 50 drivers who operate a fleet of 27 buses on various routes between Elgin and Aberdeen.
The GreenRoad system is installed on all Stagecoach vehicles.
It uses a lights system to provide drivers instant feedback on their driving to promote fuel-efficiency.
Stagecoach regional director Robert Andrew said: “This is the second year of these awards, which are a fitting tribute to the hard work Christopher put in to introduce this eco-driving technology at our bus companies.
“Smoother, fuel-efficient driving is safer, provides more comfortable journeys for our customers and helps cut our carbon footprint. I would like to congratulate our Macduff depot who have displayed excellent eco-driving skills over a consistent period of time and thoroughly deserve their award.”
Christopher Ball’s father, John, was involved in presenting the award.
He added: “I would like to congratulate all staff at the depot for winning this award. It is good to know that Christopher’s hard work is being continued and he would have been delighted that the GreenRoad system is helping to deliver such high standards of driving across Stagecoach.”
It was revealed earlier this year that Stagecoach bus employees topped a global eco-driver performance scheme which measures fuel-efficient driving.
