Safety First for Harry

OLDHAM driver Harry Rayner with his diploma

AN Oldham bus driver has been named one of the safest drivers in Manchester.

Harry Rayner, who has worked for First since 1972, has received a diploma for achieving 35 years of continual safe driving.

The 59-year-old, who drives on the 82 Waterhead-to-Manchester and the 83 Sholver-to-Manchester services, said: “It’s important to me that my passengers are comfortable and have a pleasant journey. To have my driving recognised by the industry is very rewarding.”

First Manchester’s service delivery director Robert Mason said: “Harry’s proficient driving skills have set an extremely high standard at First, and he serves as an excellent role model for many other drivers.”

Harry joins 10 other First drivers from the Oldham depot who have been rewarded for their safe driving. They are Trevor Roberts, Ian Bradford, Scott MacKenzie, Peter Rossi, Robert Hough, Ged Wilson, Brian Ferguson, Colin Hall, Martin Cuncliffe and Paul Stonier.

Acknowledged by ROSCO (the Road Operators Safety Council), the awards recognise accident-free driving, meaning no accident, conviction or road traffic offences for which the driver was held in any way responsible. To qualify, drivers must have worked at least 40 weeks of the year.