In April 2024 I (Rob Weston), entered the 68th Coach Rally in Blackpool on behalf of FR Willetts Ltd.

The competition began on a Saturday morning when I completed a 50 mile driving assessment throughout the glorious Lancashire countryside, followed by the highly demanding driving competition. Professional skills to be demonstrated included the ability to manoeuvre and safely drive today’s large coaches.

During the Saturday evening when all the drivers, couriers and operators were present, the 6 finalists for Sunday’s driving test were announced. I was to be one of the finalists. On the Sunday morning the company’s prestigious coach was presented to be judged on its appearance, followed by the driving test for the finalists. Upon completion of the final driving assessment, the awards ceremony took place on the Comedy Carpet on Blackpool seafront. After many awards in different categories, the final award announced was for Coach Driver of the Year 2024. I am thrilled to say that I achieved this accolade which was a very proud moment both for myself and the company.

We will return this year (2025) to take on the challenge again.