Waitrose & Partners wins Microlise Extra Mile and HGV Hero awards

Drivers from Waitrose & Partners have won the Extra Mile and HGV Hero awards at the Microlise Driver of The Year Awards 2020.

The nomination-based awards received more entries than ever before and the telematics-based categories contained an initial eligible pool of more than 225,000 drivers.

Paul Galbraith from Waitrose & Partners won the Extra Mile category. He delivers groceries to Waitrose stores in the South and South-West of England and, according to his managers, will change shifts and drop anything for them if needed.

A professional driver for 35 years Galbraith spends time mentoring and supporting other drivers he also hosts primary schools visits at his local Bracknell depot to promote a career in logistics and support road safety education.

The Microlise Driver of the Year HGV Hero Award was given to Tim Watson who has been driving for Waitrose & Partners for more than seventeen years.

It recognises drivers who have gone above and beyond to respond safely, professionally and with great community spirit when faced with potential human tragedy on our roads.

Watson saved the life of another motorist when their vehicle aquaplaned off the M3 and rolled down a steep slope out of sight. The motorist was trapped in the vehicle and Watson left the motorway in search of the vehicle.

He called the emergency services and stayed with the driver until they arrived.

Nadeem Raza, chief executive of Microlise, said the judges relished their role in finalising the award winners this year.

“The Microlise Driver of the Year Awards uncover fantastic drivers who have stories that highlight the sheer hard work, dedication, bravery and single-minded professionalism that is needed to excel in this industry. This is something we have always championed with our awards initiative recognising the industry’s highest achievers.”

Hovis has won the Microlise Driver Excellence Award for 2020 after telematics data showed it had the best performing drivers.

The independent judging panel included chief executive of the Road Haulage Association, Richard Burnett; the former Traffic Commissioner for Scotland, Joan Aitken; board advisor to London Ambulance Service and Transport Focus, Theo De Pencier; Dougie Rankine, editor, Road Transport Media; and executive director of Microlise, Bob Harbey.