HAMPSHIRE bus and coach passengers have been asked to nominate their favourite bus driver for a chance to win a cash prize.

Stagecoach Group has launched its 2014 Champions Awards for all its employees which aims to recognise staff achievements in a number of categories including safety, environment, health, innovation, community and customer service.

The awards are open to all employees across Stagecoach’s bus and rail operations across the country and a successful nomination could see one lucky customer win themselves up to £500.

More than 70 members of staff have been awarded over the past five years receiving gold, silver or bronze awards and a cash prize.

Managing director of Stagecoach South, Andrew Dyer, said: “We know many of our staff have a great relationship with our customers and the job they do is appreciated by many local people. Running bus services can be challenging when our drivers face difficult conditions particularly with the recent adverse weather. This is a chance for our customers to help local staff gain recognition at a national level as well as potentially winning a prize themselves.”

Customers who wish to nominate an employee should email champions@stagecoachgroup.com giving details of the staff member and an explanation of why they believe the employee deserves to win an award. The deadline for nominations is midnight on Friday March 28.