Stephen Kiely

Nikunj Popat has won Stagecoach Yorkshire’s local heat and will represent the company at the national Bus Driver of the Year final in Blackpool on 6 September. He will face competitors from across the country in theory and practical tests, including precision driving on the Middle Walk route. Stagecoach Yorkshire training head Brian Rymer praised Popat’s professional standards, safety focus and chances of performing well under pressure.

Stagecoach Yorkshire launched a giveaway offering two Peak Sightseer day tickets and a £100 Longbow Venues dining voucher, with entries submitted by commenting on the company’s social media post. The promotion celebrates another season of the open‑top bus routes through key Peak District destinations, running daily until mid‑September and then on Saturdays into October.