Bus Driver of the Year 2027 date confirmed

Mindful of the structural changes impacting on the operating industry, the organisers of the Bus Driver of the Year National Final are keen to confirm Sunday 5th September 2027 as the date for the 59th event.

As usual the competition will be located on Blackpool seafront and headquartered at The Imperial Hotel where the Gala Dinner will also be held. Around 100 of the UK's best bus drivers will compete for the coveted Bus Driver of the Year trophy which was won this year by David Nairn of First Bus West Yorkshire.

The competition to find the Bus Driver of the Year (BDoY) has its origins in the first practical skills competition for bus drivers in the UK organised in 1967. However, deregulation and privatisation resulted in a decline in support that organisers fear might be repeated in the wake of the current wave of franchising.

Operators are reminded that the National Final is open all bus drivers regardless of the size or ownership of the business. Potential candidates must complete at least three shifts per week and have an accident-free record.

Tests of skill and knowledge combine with a two-mile route through the streets of Blackpool and along Middle Walk on the resort’s famous seafront. Full details of entry and arrangements for the Gala Dinner will be announced in January.