Chris Given, a truck driver for EV Cargo company CM Downton, has been recognised as an ambassador for the industry after being shortlisted for a prestigious national award.
Chris is one of the final three in the ‘Most Improved Driver’ category of the Microlise Driver of the Year Awards, the country’s premier awards for professional HGV drivers. More than 21,000 drivers are eligible to enter the awards and Chris won his place in the top three despite there being a record number of entries this year.
Although he has been a driver for 41 years, the judges were impressed by Chris’s willingness to learn new skills and to undertake training around road safety, reducing fuel usage and cutting down on emissions.
Chris, who has been with Downton for four years, operating from the Chepstow depot, shot up the Microlise driver telematics league tables after undertaking safe and fuel-efficient driver training last year. He earned ‘A’ grades from his examiners after embracing the challenge and adapting his driving style to gain top marks. He has maintained that exceptional level ever since.
His efforts have proved an inspiration to others and he now sets a benchmark for drivers to aim for. He is a shining example of the benefits Downton’s driver training programme can bring, helping equip drivers with the skills to reduce fuel usage, cut out harsh braking while being more aware and driving safely on the roads.
Zac Brown, CM Downton managing director, said: “Downton places huge emphasis on driving standards and our training programmes help deliver skills to drivers around driving safely and being fuel efficient. They are all professional drivers and ambassadors for the Downton brand while out on the road and I’d like to congratulate Chris for reaching the finals in this competitive category.”
Microlise Chief Executive Nadeem Raza said: “The Microlise Driver of the Year Awards, which is now in its sixth year, continues to highlight the expertise and sheer dedication of drivers who travel the length and breadth of the UK. According to the judging panel, there is little to separate our shortlisted drivers, who are true ambassadors for the industry.”
For making the shortlist in the Microlise Driver of the Year Awards, Chris will receive a VIP Porsche driving day, once social distancing restrictions have been relaxed.
