It has been a year of accolades for First Scotland East bus driver, Steven Godfrey. The 41 year old from Bonchester Bridge (just outside Hawick) was named the company’s ‘Superstar of the Month’ earlier this year and was also shortlisted for the ‘Frontline Employee of the Year’ prize at the Scottish Transport Awards. First Scotland East today confirmed that Steven has been named the company’s ‘Superstar of the Year’ award.
Steven, who works out of First Scotland East’s Galashiels depot, was driving First Scotland East’s Service 68 from Jedburgh to Galashiels and at Ancrum, just outside Jedburgh, he came across a BMW x5, which had just been involved in a terrible crash. Worried about the engine catching fire and the vehicle going up in flames with the couple trapped inside, Steven acting on instinct and training, was able to successfully free the driver and passenger.
Operations Director for First Scotland East, John Gorman, sad: “There were lots of First Scotland East drivers competing with Steven for the Superstar of the Year Award. There have been countless examples of our drivers going beyond the call of duty to help our customers and other road users. Steven was our 2012/13 winner – he’s got a great rapport with customers, but his quick thinking and heroic actions could have saved the couple’s lives – he fully deserves his Superstar of the Year title.”
Steven, who has been a driver with First Scotland East since 2009, said: “It has been a very exciting year. Attending the Scottish Transport Awards and receiving special recognition was a highlight, but winning the Superstar of the Year award tops even that. I am delighted to have received the award, but the most important thing was that the couple were not seriously injured. I think put in my position, anyone would have tried to assist.”
First's Superstar scheme recognises outstanding behaviour by staff. Nominations are received from colleagues and customers each month and the winner is presented with £100 worth of shopping vouchers. To nominate a bus driver for a Superstar award, please visit www.firstgroup.com/superstars, call customer services on 08708 727271 or email [email protected].