Inspirational CM Downton and EV Cargo truck driver Annette Stagg has been recognised with a top award at one of the haulage industry’s most prestigious events to celebrate outstanding commercial vehicle drivers.
Annette was crowned winner in the Extra Mile category at the Microlise Driver of the Year Awards, which highlight the most talented HGV drivers working in the UK transport industry and acknowledge the vital work they do.
The category is for drivers who deliver an exemplary level of service, show great commitment to get the job done, and act as a role model for young drivers.
As one of the first female drivers in the industry, and the first at Downton’s Runcorn depot, Annette has flown the flag for female drivers on a national level – including an appearance on BBC’s Breakfast TV programme.
And she was just one of four Downton drivers to be nominated for awards at this year’s black tie event, which was held in front of 1200 people at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.
Class 2 driver Paul Meadows, who joined the company earlier this year, was also nominated in the Extra Mile category.
Meanwhile Cameron Dean, who began his career as mechanic before becoming Downton’s first driving apprentice of 2018, was shortlisted for the Young Driver of the Year award.
Kenny Wright – a driver for 40 years – was in the running for the Lifetime Achievement Award which recognises the driver who is often an ambassador for their company, having consistently delivered excellent performance and loyalty over a long period of time.
CM Downton managing director Duncan Eyre said: “We are hugely proud of all our drivers, and we’re delighted that these four have been recognised nationally for their skill and dedication. Special congratulations must go to Annette, however. She has been a trailblazer throughout her career and remains a credit to Downton and to the profession as a whole.
“As a key point of contact with customers, our drivers are brand ambassadors for Downton and we continue to invest in their training and overall career development.”
For being nominated as finalists, all four drivers were invited to a Porsche experience day at Silverstone.
