Lothian Buses People's Champion: Pick your driver of the year

Four Lothian employees who have touched the hearts with their good deeds have made it on to the shortlist for this year's People's Champion Award.

Charmaine Laurie, Ally Brazil, Thomas Edde and George Wilson have all been shortlisted for the Lothian Buses People's Champion

A random act of kindness can go a long way and the award recognises those who go the extra mile for their customers.

The People’s Champion doesn’t necessarily have to be a bus driver, any Lothian employee who has made a lasting impression on their customers.

Our finalists are made up of a member of the firm’s commercial team and three bus drivers – displaying how highly regarding employees at Lothian are liked and respected.

The actions of Charmaine Laurie, George Wilson, Ally Brazil and Thomas Edde have captured the imaginations of the Capital with their great service to Edinburgh, not just once, but on a consistent basis.

The Nominees

Charmaine Laurie – Central Driver

Charmaine Laurie started with the company in March 2015. She is currently based at our Central garage and is very popular with her colleagues and customers.

During Beast from the East, Charmaine narrowly escaped a serious accident due to her quick thinking and professionalism. Charmaine has continued to be a positive influence at work and was even nominated for a National Transport award in October.

Ally Brazil – Longstone Driver

Ally Brazil has been employed with the Company since 2003. He is very good with our customers receiving a number of commendations over the years. He has also helped out over the years with the training school as a driving instructor.

Earlier this year while driving Ally was informed by a customer that another customer had collapsed at the rear of the bus. Ally stopped the vehicle and under instruction from emergency services carried out CPR until the Ambulance crew arrived. Although his efforts were unsuccessful, Ally was back driving the following day and both the police and ambulance service sent a special thanks to Ally for all he had done the previous day.

George Wilson – Marine Driver

George joined the company in 2006 and currently works in our Marine garage. George has received countless commendations from his customers in the last 12 months for his cheery and friendly attitude, with many customers commenting on what truly lovely person he is.

He is very highly regarded by his colleagues and managers and always portrays a professional manner. George is always happy to help where he can and always puts his customers first.

Thomas Edde

Thomas Edde has been with Lothian since 2013. He currently works as part of our Commercial team and also does some driving duties to help where he can. Thomas is instrumental in many of the special event services which Lothian operate including the planning and running of event services such as the Royal Highland Show, Gardening Scotland and Queensferry Crossing. Thomas always goes above and beyond for special events and roadshows. He always receives good customer feedback and is always a firm favourite with customers due to his French charm.

Nominess 'an inspiration

Euan McGrory, editor of the Edinburgh Evening News, said: “The good deeds of Lothian staff this year have really won our hearts. They have been an inspiration.

“They provide a fantastic service to the city around the clock, every day of the year, but sometimes it is the way that they do it that makes all the difference. A little thought and care can go a long, long way.

“We are delighted to recognise the kindness and care shown by their staff throughout the year. I look forward to seeing who the public think deserves to be our People’s Champion.”

Let us know by midnight on Friday, November 23, at the latest for your vote to count. Votes will then be counted and verified to discover just who will win the top award.

The People’s Champion will then be honoured on November 30 at the Hilton Carlton on North Bridge.