Stagecoach West driver Anthony Quinn is one of the best bus drivers in the UK - and that's official.

Anthony, who drives on the Stagecoach Gold services in Gloucester and Cheltenham, was runner-up to the number one spot in the hotly contested UK Bus Driver of the Year competition in Blackpool.

He was also the outright winner of the Giles Fearnley Shield for the Best Competitor from a Depot in England. The winner of the UK Bus Driver of the Year award was Ian Field from Stagecoach East Scotland.

Anthony, aged 52, who has been a Stagecoach West driver for nine years and lives in Gloucester, was judged on ten bus driving skills in the competition which involved more than 90 bus drivers from different companies all over the UK.

"I enjoy everything about my job as a bus driver and I have lots of lovely customers who I'm sure will be pleased for me," said Anthony. "I like to give them the best service I can.

"I took part in the competition for the people of Gloucestershire really and I hope it will help put the county on the map."

Anthony added: "I take pride in my work and regard myself as a professional and drive accordingly."

Joe Mackie, chairman of the UK Bus Driver of the Year Association, congratulated all the trophy winners and thanked the dedicated volunteers who make the competition possible.

Rupert Cox, Managing Director of Stagecoach West, said: "We are delighted with Anthony's success in the UK Bus Driver of the Year competition and the skill and dedication he has shown.

"To come runner-up in such a prestigious national competition is an outstanding achievement and we are very proud of him."