A YORK bus driver has been named as community champion from nearly 7,000 First employees across Yorkshire and Greater Manchester.

Jon Mitchell, 32, from Clifton, won the title for his work in the local area, including customer consultation events.

He was worked with local groups such as the Young Independent Living & Transport Skills, which supports vulnerable members of the community in gaining confidence to use public transport, and York Blind & Partially Sighted Society, and also supported the annual York Resident's Festival and worked in partnership with charity Brake to promote road safety.

First in York has also scooped the Environmental Excellence Award for investing in schemes such as DriveGreen and Idling systems, which have helped reduce fuel usage and improve smooth driving techniques.

The York team was also recognised for its introduction of the first full electric bus route, involving work in site infrastructure, driver and supervisor training, vehicle specification requirements and equipment fitting and communications.

Will Pearson, business manager at First in York said: “I’m incredibly proud of Jon and all the team who've worked hard in the communities we serve and delivered real environmental improvements in the business.

"It's fantastic news to see their efforts recognised by being chosen as the best across the North of England."