Stagecoach East Midlands, which operates services across Newark, Retford, and the wider region, is gearing up for a major night as it prepares to learn whether it has secured top honours at one of the most prestigious events in the UK bus industry. The operator has been shortlisted in an impressive six categories at this year’s UK Bus Awards, highlighting both individual excellence and the impact of its community partnerships.
The UK Bus Awards, now in their 25th year, are widely recognised for celebrating the people and initiatives that help drive innovation, performance, and service quality across the industry. The 2025 ceremony will take place at London’s historic Troxy on 25 November, where finalists from across the country will gather.
Stagecoach East Midlands has received widespread recognition across a diverse range of categories. Its partnership with West Notts College has been shortlisted for the Partnership for Excellence Award, also known as The Peter Huntley Memorial Award. Individual achievements are also in the spotlight, with Worksop driver Iain Bonser nominated for the Top National Bus Driver accolade, The Chris Moyes Memorial Award.
Further strengthening the region’s representation, Grimsby Operations Manager Chris Kelk and Hull Operations Manager Jack Wright have both been shortlisted for Manager of the Year, demonstrating the depth of management talent within the company. Meanwhile, the operator’s work with the Ask for Angel Street initiative has been named a finalist in the Bus and the Community category, recognising its commitment to supporting vulnerable people. The Hull Bus Alliance has also secured a place as a finalist in the Partnership for Excellence category.
Matt Cranwell, Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands, said the recognition reflects the effort and dedication of the entire team.
“We are really looking forward to finding out the results, but the fact is that just to be named Finalists in six categories at the UK Bus Awards is a real testament to the team’s hard work and their desire to provide the best possible service for the people and communities in our region,” he said.
“Recognition like this just goes to prove the care that the team take in working for our loyal customers, day in and day out.”
Customers can find more information on local bus routes and services, purchase tickets before boarding, and track buses in real time through the Stagecoach Bus App, available via the Stagecoach website.
Posted on 25 November 2025
